Interim Head of Democratic Services & Governance

Venn Group; England; On-site; GBP 68,000 - 97,000; Part time

Job summary

Venn Group is recruiting for an interim, full-time Locum Head of Democratic Services based in Sussex. The role leads Democratic Services, Overview & Scrutiny and Civic Office, advising elected Members and senior officers on constitutional and governance matters.

The post entails managing committees, developing the authority's constitutional framework, and providing strategic leadership in a high-profile, politically sensitive environment. 37 hours per week on an interim contract.

Qualifications

• Substantial experience within Local Government Democratic Services.
• Strong knowledge of local government governance and constitutional procedures.
• Experience advising elected Members and senior officers.
• Proven leadership and people management experience.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to operate in a politically sensitive environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead Democratic Services, Overview & Scrutiny and Civic Office functions.
• Provide expert advice on constitutional matters and decision-making processes.
• Oversee Council, Cabinet and committee meetings, including timetabling and political balance.
• Lead development and review of the authority's Constitution and wider democratic arrangements.
• Support effective scrutiny, policy development and political accountability.
• Advise elected Members, senior officers and political leadership on governance matters.
• Build and maintain relationships with senior Members, Committee Chairs and Group Leaders.
• Oversee Member support arrangements and allowances.
• Support delivery of civic functions.
• Manage service resources and budgets.
• Provide strategic leadership within a politically sensitive environment.

Skills

Democratic Services

Governance

Stakeholder management

Budget management

Constitutional procedures

Leadership

Job description

Venn Group is recruiting for an interim, full-time Locum Head of Democratic Services based in Sussex. The role leads Democratic Services, Overview & Scrutiny and Civic Office, advising elected Members and senior officers on constitutional and governance matters.

The post entails managing committees, developing the authority's constitutional framework, and providing strategic leadership in a high-profile, politically sensitive environment. 37 hours per week on an interim contract.