Strategy Policy and Performance Officer

Walsall Council; Walsall; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Walsall is seeking a strategic thinker to embed a performance and policy framework. This opportunity involves collaborating with senior leaders and partners while contributing to council services' overarching goals. Candidates should possess excellent research skills and a good understanding of local government processes. The organisation values diversity and inclusivity, offering flexible working arrangements and numerous development opportunities.

Benefits

Generous holiday entitlements

First class pension scheme

Training and personal development opportunities

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• Good understanding of local government operations.
• Ability to produce briefing notes and reports to high standards.
• Commitment to reducing inequalities.

Responsibilities

• Support strategy development across various services.
• Work closely with senior leaders and local partners.
• Embed a performance and policy framework.

Skills

Excellent research skills

Strategic thinking

Adaptable communication skills

Understanding of local government

Job description

The Policy & Strategy Unit was established in 2022 and we've already embedded ourselves at the centre of Walsall's strategic landscape. We work directly with elected members and senior officers across all directorates to shape our corporate priorities through high profile pieces of work such as our new Council Plan and associated performance reporting process. We play a vital role in supporting Walsall's relationship with the West Midlands Combined Authority. And we're strengthening relationships with our local partners too through the development of our borough strategy - We Are Walsall 2040 .

But we have even more to do! Over the next year we'll be busy embedding a performance and policy framework for the organisation that underpins delivery against our corporate ambitions, including developing a robust service planning process. Working at the heart of the local authority, you could find yourself supporting strategy development across the full range of services - from public health to grass cutting. The Unit also lead the Council's strategic Equality, Diversity and Inclusion agenda, so your awareness of the Public Sector Equality Duty and a commitment to reducing inequalities will be a tremendous benefit.

The role provides the opportunity to be at the heart of the Council's thinking. Therefore, we're looking for someone with a good understanding of local government, excellent research skills, and the ability to produce briefing notes and reports to the highest standard. You'll have an aptitude for thinking strategically about the Council's work and the way it's delivered. And your enthusiasm for an intelligence-led approach to Council priorities will also be a real asset. You'll regularly work closely with senior officers, elected members, local partners and residents; your professional attitude and adaptable communication skills will help us to do that in a positive and effective way.

Positioned at the heart of Walsall Council to support and influence strategic thinking across council services, this role will involve working closely with senior leaders, elected members, local and regional partners towards our long-term vision to reduce inequalities and deliver meaningful change for the borough.

We are a diverse, supportive and flexible team, committed to professional development, and this role provides a great platform upon which to build your career in local government.

Here at Walsall, we want to attract the best talent. That's why - as well as a satisfying and rewarding job - we offer a range of attractive benefits. Working arrangements in most jobs are flexible (you may work flexitime, full or part time and job sharing is usually available) and you can expect generous holiday entitlements, a first class pension scheme and plenty of opportunities for training and personal development. Walsall Council is committed to creating and working to uphold an inclusive environment where every person feels empowered, valued and respected. We strongly encourage applications from individuals across diverse backgrounds, and we work to treat all applicants fairly and without discrimination. We actively promote diversity and equality, ensuring that our services and opportunities are accessible to all members of our community. We recognise that achieving true inclusivity is an ongoing journey; together, we strive to create a welcoming workplace that celebrates differences and empowers everyone to thrive.

Living in Walsall

Part of the Black Country, famous for its enterprising and industrial past, Walsall is reinventing itself to become a progressive modern community. The borough is centred around the major town of Walsall, but also includes five smaller and distinctive district centres (Bloxwich, Aldridge, Willenhall, Darlaston and Brownhills), together with numerous villages.

Find out more about Living in Walsall.

Walsall Council is committed to Safer Recruitment.

To achieve our commitment, we will ensure continuous development and improvement of robust recruitment processes and procedures that promote a culture of safeguarding amongst our workforce.