Temporary to cover Maternity Leave (November 2024 – July 2025)

Do you want to have the opportunity to be part of an experienced and happy team?  You would be joining a team who support each other and have a commitment to always working to a high standard.  This is a team who work well together and continually share knowledge and experience so that everyone feels able to grow and develop within a supportive environment.

You will bring your own skills and experience of working in a Democratic environment which will be welcomed for new ideas and the ability to confidently be a proactive member of the team from day one.   Working in local government can be demanding and challenging but when working in a supportive environment the challenges are achievable and can be rewarding. Bedford Borough Council is an authority with a directly elected Mayor, a relatively new political administration and many key priorities for the Council and Bedford Borough. This role is an opportunity for someone to join an existing team to cover for a period of maternity leave and to help to deliver high quality committee and scrutiny services to Members of the Council. With your existing experience, skills and knowledge you will quickly be able to make a proactive contribution to the team and the Council.

Responsibilities include:

•  Undertaking agenda planning, convening meetings, issuing agendas and taking minutes of the meetings.

•  Ensuring timetables are met and co-ordination between committees and groups enhances the democratic process of the Council.

•  To act as a senior member of the Democratic and Electoral Services team to promote effective democratic functions within the Council.

•  To work with team members to ensure consistency of approach and development of knowledge and skills across the team; and consistency in advice to officers and Members.

You must have a thorough knowledge of the law relating to Council committee meetings and have experience of supporting committees within a political environment. You should also have a sound knowledge of local government, possess excellent written and verbal communication skills, be committed to team working, and have a flexible approach to work.

This post holder must be available to work "out of the normal office hours" during the week as dictated by the requirements of the service. 

For an informal discussion,  contact Lesley Blue, Manager for Democratic and Members on 01234 228819 or Lesley.blue@bedford.gov.uk  

Closing date 29th September 2024 - Interviews week ending 4th October 2024

How to apply
When you are ready to apply, click on ‘Apply for Vacancy’; you will be asked to upload a CV and answer some application questions.  The application questions require a yes/no response.  Please make sure your CV shows how you meet the requirements for the role you are applying for, the job profile below will show the essential selection criteria.  An optional CV template is provided below.