Senior Committee Manager

i-Jobs; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job description

Job Description: Interim Senior Committee Manager

Location: CB2 3QJ

Pay Rate: £26.32 per hour (PAYE)

Contract Type: Interim (Approx. 6 months)

Reporting To: Democratic Services Manager

Service Area: Governance & Democratic Services

Hours: Full-time, with some evening and weekend availability required

Purpose of the Role:
To work with the Democratic Services Manager and Committee Managers on an interim basis to ensure the timely and effective provision of constitutional and governance advice to elected members, senior officers, and the public. The role will support the delivery and maintenance of high-quality democratic governance processes and play a key part in overseeing compliance with legislative and constitutional frameworks. This role is critical to the Council's governance function and reputation, especially during a period of significant structural change.

Key Responsibilities

1. Ensure lawful and constitutionally compliant decision-making procedures are in place and followed across all Council meetings.
2. Maintain and regularly update the Council's Constitution, associated governance protocols, and guidance documents.
3. Provide expert constitutional advice to elected members, officers, and external stakeholders as required.
4. Ensure the effective organisation and facilitation of Council meetings in line with corporate policies.
5. Draft, present, and respond to reports and recommendations relating to Democratic Services.
6. Support the Democratic Services Manager in setting and upholding corporate governance standards and best practices.
7. Deliver or assist with the delivery of training for officers and members on democratic and decision-making procedures.
8. Keep abreast of current and emerging legislation and best practices through research and collaboration (including with networks such as ADSO).
9. Promote a culture of continuous improvement within the governance team, adapting practices to align with evolving governance structures.

Person Specification

Essential Experience

1. Substantial experience working in Democratic and Committee Services, with detailed knowledge of council constitutions or similar governance structures.
2. Proven ability to interpret legislation and explain governance implications to stakeholders.
3. Experience working closely with elected members and senior leadership, providing accurate constitutional/statutory advice.

Essential Qualifications

1. Degree-level education or equivalent relevant work experience.

Desirable Qualifications

1. ADSO qualification or a related governance/legal credential.

Essential Knowledge and Skills

1. In-depth understanding of local government law, rules, and procedures in a democratic context.
2. Strong experience providing advice during live committee meetings.
3. Ability to work in politically sensitive environments with diplomacy and discretion.
4. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
5. Strong planning and organisational skills, able to manage multiple tasks to tight deadlines.
6. Confidence influencing senior officers, members, staff, and partners.
7. Familiarity with committee management software (e.g., Civica Modern.Gov or similar).

Additional Requirements

1. Ability to work in person as needed, including some evenings and weekends.
2. Strong customer focus and a commitment to responsive, high-quality service delivery.
3. A values-led approach to governance, reflecting the Council's mission and public responsibilities.