Democratic Services Officer

Do you want a role where you're recognised for what you do, given the opportunity to thrive and have the chance to be the best version of yourself? Interested in joining a great organisation with an employee offer and experience that rivals others? Are you looking for a new challenge? If so, please keep reading as you're just what we're looking for!

The team…

The Democratic Services team has stewardship of the Council's decision-making and works closely with senior managers and elected councillors to ensure that decisions are made in a timely, efficient and lawful manner.

The Democratic Services team sits within the Council's Governance team which also has responsibility for Elections, Information Governance, Corporate Complaints and Councillor Support & Development; and within the Council's Legal & Democratic Services.

About the role….

This is a newly-created post to add to the existing team of Democratic Services officers, and to meet emerging demand. The successful candidate will provide advice on governance matters, facilitate meetings and hearings, and ensure that protocols, procedures and the Council's constitution remain fit for purpose.

Reporting to the Democratic Services Team Leader, you will provide professional services to support the Council's democratic and governance processes, working closely with key decision-makers and partners.

Gateshead is a constantly changing borough combining modern facilities with a fascinating heritage and the demand for our services continues to grow. We engage with many partners and contract a high number of services to deliver the best outcomes for our community. We're truly committed to providing our customers with the highest quality of service and we need like-minded people who can help us deliver a sector leading service. We need people who want to make a difference, who are talented, possess the right knowledge and skills and who want the chance to demonstrate how good they are.

People really are our greatest asset at Gateshead Council, and we value every employee. We encourage our people to think differently, do the right thing and be innovative.

What's in it for you? Well, there's so much on offer and here's just a few of the highlights!

You'll be paid a competitive salary £33,945 - £36,648 pa
We'll help you save for your future with an outstanding employer contribution to your pension.
You will receive an annual leave entitlement starting at 28 days per year (pro-rata for part time employees) rising to 32, 2 of which may be fixed by the council at any time. You also have the chance to buy up to 10 additional holidays per year.
You'll have the opportunity to participate in the Council's Flexi time scheme, subject to management approval and business needs, which could be up to 26 flexi days per year.
We offer hybrid working arrangements to ensure a positive work life balance.
A robust Workforce Development offer with opportunities for learning to progress your career and to enhance your knowledge in specific areas.
You'll have access to great health and wellbeing support, including discounted membership to GO Gateshead Leisure Services and ability to use our cycle to work scheme.
You'll have access to our new benefits platform VIVUP where you can get discounts and offers on online and high street shopping

It's time to apply!

We're delighted that you want to come and work with us. Please take a look at the full job profile via this link. It's important that you read it in full and check that you meet the essential criteria, because when we start choosing people to come and meet us we'll be checking to ensure that they meet the essential criteria as set out in the job profile.