Full Time 37 hours per week

We are looking to recruit an ambitious and enthusiastic individual to work in our Democratic Services & Scrutiny Team, to enhance our service and maintain our expertise in this field. Could that be you?

The postholder plays a vital role in supporting the Council’s decision making and scrutiny processes and in promoting and safeguarding local democracy in Devon. The role provides support to elected members and to designated Committees of the Council and duties will include the preparation of agendas and minutes and advising on governance and procedure at formal Committee meetings as well as schools admission appeals and Independent Review Panels. The postholder is involved in decision making at the very centre of the Council.

The postholder will also support the Council’s Scrutiny Committees, which plays an integral part in policy development and you will therefore need strong written skills, have an analytical mind and practical research skills. Effective communication is key, as is the ability to prioritise and manage one’s own work.

The postholder must be able to work in a professional and competent manner, responding to the pressures of normal day to day operations, ensuring the Council’s democratic and governance processes are adhered to, to ensure elected members fulfil their duties in accordance with the Council’s Code of Conduct and that the Council meets its legal obligations.

The postholder has regular contact with senior officers and Members in a role which is both rewarding and challenging; providing advice, guidance and support to the Council’s democratic process. A sound knowledge and understanding of the Council’s Constitution, administrative law and practice and governance and standards issues is therefore necessary for this role, as is knowledge of the legislative and policy agenda facing local government. Experience of working with Elected Members within a democratic process is essential.

We are looking for a personable, highly organised and committed individual, who can work with minimal supervision, on their own initiative and meet tight deadlines.

Whatever your background, excellent interpersonal and communication skills is a must.

The Democratic Services & Scrutiny Team is part of the wider Legal Services and Democratic Services Department.

For an informal discussion please contact Karen Strahan [email protected]

How to apply
Please ensure when completing your application form that you provide a supporting statement which demonstrates how you meet the essential and desirable criteria as described in the person specification of the job description. Applications may not be taken forwards if the supporting statement is not adequately completed.

Internal Applicants, please note: If you are an existing DCC employee, please use your iTrent Employee Self Service (ESS) details to log in and apply.

Please click Apply Now to see further information.

• DCC embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an environment that is inclusive and safe. We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to stop discrimination, challenge inequality and promote diversity across Devon. More information can be found on our Equality and Diversity webpages.
• Happy to Talk Flexible Working – The Council offers flexible working arrangements in terms of when and where people work e.g. hybrid working, part-time, condensed hours etc.
• We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
• This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.
• Personal data we collect from you will be processed in accordance with the Applicant privacy notice.
• For more information about Working for Devon please visit our Working for Devon page.
• We cannot consider visa sponsorship at this time. UK Right to Work is required. For further guidance on right to work in the UK, please visit: Work in the UK – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).