Head of Democratic Services — Governance & Strategy Lead

SOLOS Consultants Ltd; Eastbourne; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

SOLOS Consultants Ltd is looking for a Head of Democratic Services to lead Democratic Services, Overview and Scrutiny, and Civic Office within a local authority. You will shape governance, advise elected Members, and drive improvements while managing budgets and teams.

The role requires senior local government experience, strong political awareness, and the ability to work across groups with impartiality. Hybrid work in the South East is offered.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in local government in a senior management or governance role.
• Strong understanding of governance, political structures and decision‑making processes.
• Experience advising elected Members, senior officers and stakeholders on complex matters.
• Proven leadership and people management skills.
• Experience managing budgets and operational demands in the public sector.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management in a political setting.
• Ability to remain impartial while building cross‑party relationships.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership to Democratic Services, Overview & Scrutiny, and Civic Office teams.
• Advise on democratic governance, constitutional matters and council decision‑making.
• Oversee planning of Council, Cabinet and committee business including meeting schedules.
• Lead development of constitutional arrangements and democratic procedures.
• Support Overview & Scrutiny to challenge decisions and influence policy.
• Ensure guidance and support for elected Members and officers.
• Oversee allowances, declarations of interest and transparency requirements.
• Provide leadership for civic functions and support for Mayor/Deputy Mayor.
• Manage budgets, resources and team development with a focus on improvement.

Skills

Senior governance experience

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Budget management

Communication

Job description

SOLOS Consultants Ltd is looking for a Head of Democratic Services to lead Democratic Services, Overview and Scrutiny, and Civic Office within a local authority. You will shape governance, advise elected Members, and drive improvements while managing budgets and teams.

The role requires senior local government experience, strong political awareness, and the ability to work across groups with impartiality. Hybrid work in the South East is offered.