Interim Head of Democratic Services - Governance Lead

Sellick Partnership; Southampton; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Sellick Partnership is supporting a newly established public sector organisation by providing an Interim Head of Democratic Services to lead and hands-on support during a critical transition.

The role requires senior Democratic Services experience, strong governance knowledge, and the ability to operate autonomously with a pragmatic, solutions-focused approach. Occasional travel for in-person meetings across the wider area is expected.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in Democratic Services, ideally senior level.
• Strong knowledge of local government governance and committee processes.
• Experience supporting governance, scrutiny, audit or board meetings.

Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day leadership and oversight of Democratic Services activity.
• Ensure committee and governance arrangements are planned, coordinated and delivered.
• Provide professional advice on meetings, agendas, reports, minutes and processes.
• Work with senior officers and stakeholders to ensure meetings run smoothly.
• Identify and resolve issues with sound professional judgement.
• Provide continuity during the transition to the permanent Head of Democratic Services.
• Support governance, scrutiny and board meetings, including in-person attendance.
• Collaborate with colleagues while maintaining independence.

Skills

Democratic Services

Governance

Local government processes

ModernGov

Stakeholder management

Communication

Tools

ModernGov

Job description

Sellick Partnership is supporting a newly established public sector organisation by providing an Interim Head of Democratic Services to lead and hands-on support during a critical transition.

The role requires senior Democratic Services experience, strong governance knowledge, and the ability to operate autonomously with a pragmatic, solutions-focused approach. Occasional travel for in-person meetings across the wider area is expected.