Parish Clerk and Proper Officer of the Council
Salary: SCP 37-41 (£46,731-£50,788 as of 2024/25) plus public sector pension and benefits
Contract: Full Time, Permanent
Hours: 37 hours a week plus occasional evening meetings and weekend events
Location: Chigwell, Essex
Closing Date: Thursday 25 September
Interview Dates: End of September/early October
Overview
Make a Real Difference in Local Governance
We are seeking an exceptional and forward-thinking Parish Clerk and Proper Officer to lead the strategic, operational and statutory functions of our Parish Council.
The Parish Clerk and Proper Officer is not a traditional clerical role, you’ll be the Council’s Chief Executive. We are seeking a highly capable individual to lead our team, manage major budgets, drive projects, ensure compliance and guide elected members on complex legal and strategic decisions.
Are you an experienced leader with the vision, drive and integrity to make a real difference? This is your chance to step into a high-impact leadership role at the heart of local democracy where your strategic thinking, people management skills and public service ethos will directly shape the future of Chigwell.
This is a role for someone who thrives on variety, challenge and purpose.
Why This Role Stands Out
* Leadership at the Highest Local Level - the successful applicant will be the Council’s most senior officer, with full responsibility for strategy, staffing, governance, finance and service delivery
* Shape a Community’s Future - support Councillors in developing innovative policies and leading transformational projects
* Real Influence and Tangible Results - see the direct impact of your work on residents, infrastructure, and local wellbeing
* Collaborative, Values-Driven Culture - work alongside passionate elected members, staff and partners committed to sustainability, inclusivity and progress
* Professional Growth - build your qualifications and leadership credentials with access to training, professional support and the opportunity to earn sector-specific certifications (e.g. CiLCA, IOSH)
The Essentials You'll Bring
A strong general education (minimum 3 A-levels and 5 GCSEs incl. English & Maths). Proven leadership and strategic planning experience in a complex, regulated environment. Direct responsibility for managing teams, operations, and a budget of at least £300K. Skilled in financial planning, compliance and writing reports that shape decisions. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills - you’ll be the voice and face of the Council. Highly competent in IT (Microsoft 365, Teams, digital tools like Copilot). A clear understanding of governance, transparency, data protection and public accountability.
Desirable (But Not Essential)
CiLCA or a qualification in Community Governance. IOSH/NEBOSH certification. Project management qualifications or experience delivering public-facing projects. Familiarity with local government law, planning systems and FOI/GDPR frameworks.
The Person We’re Looking For
You're a confident and creative leader, calm under pressure and passionate about public service. You bring integrity, diplomacy and a people-first mindset to every decision. You’re equally comfortable advising Councillors in a meeting as you are shaping the Council’s next five-year plan or guiding a local stakeholder partnership.
Other Requirements
Willingness to work occasional evenings/weekends. Full, clean UK driving licence. Commitment to ongoing professional development.
Apply Now
If you’re excited about leadership in local government, we want to hear from you. Please click apply below. For a full application pack or informal discussion, contact:
recruitment@chigwellparishcouncil.gov.uk
Tel: 020 8501 4275
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