Clerk and responsible financial officer (rfo)

This is a rare opportunity to lead a large, ambitious and forward-thinking parish council at a pivotal moment in local government. Wombourne Parish Council serves a vibrant and growing community of approximately 15,000 residents in South Staffordshire. The council delivers a wide range of services and facilities including the Civic Centre, public conveniences, community events, open spaces, recreational facilities, football pitches, village assets and community engagement initiatives. The council has grown significantly over recent years, both operationally and strategically and now employs a diverse staff team of 15 individuals delivering increasingly complex local services. As the organisation continues to evolve, the council is seeking a highly capable and forward-thinking professional who can build upon the work undertaken by the current Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer, while leading the council confidently into its next phase of development and change. The successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and political neutrality expected of a senior local government officer, while maintaining positive and effective working relationships with councillors, employees, residents and external stakeholders. This role presents a unique opportunity to: Support the council through the local elections scheduled for May 2027 Lead the council through a period of significant change and transformation as we prepare proactively for anticipated local government reform and devolution proposals Shape the future strategic direction of a growing and increasingly influential local authority Strengthen governance, operational resilience and community engagement Work closely with councillors, employees, residents and partner organisations to deliver high quality local services The successful candidate will be a highly motivated and professional leader with strong governance, financial management and organisational skills. They will understand the importance of balancing strategic leadership with day-to-day operational management and community engagement. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced clerk, deputy clerk or senior local government professional seeking to make a meaningful impact within a dynamic and ambitious council. The council would ideally seek an appointment which allows for an appropriate handover period with the current Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer, in order to support a smooth and effective transition. The council would therefore ideally like the successful candidate to commence the role no later than the middle of August 2026 (notice period allowing). Due to the nature and seniority of the role, this position is considered politically restricted in accordance with the Local Government and Housing Act 1989. Job Description Role Title: Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer (RFO) Location: Wombourne Civic Centre, Gravel Hill, Wombourne, Staffordshire, WV5 9HA Responsible To: Full Council Responsible For: All council employees and operational services Main Purpose of the Role: The Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer is the council’s most senior employee and Proper Officer. The postholder is responsible for ensuring that the council conducts its business lawfully, effectively and transparently while delivering high quality services to the community. The Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer will provide strategic leadership, governance advice and operational management across all council functions and services. As part of a proactive and operationally involved parish council, the role also requires direct day-to-day involvement in democratic administration, financial processing, meeting management and operational oversight. The role includes responsibility for democratic services, policy implementation, financial management, staff leadership, risk management, asset oversight, strategic planning, community engagement and organisational development. The postholder will work closely with councillors to support effective decision-making and ensure the council is appropriately prepared for future local government change, including devolution and increased local responsibilities. The Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer will act as the council’s Proper Officer in accordance with the Local Government Act 1972 and all associated legislation. Key Responsibilities: Governance & Democratic Services Ensure the council operates in accordance with all relevant legislation, regulations and statutory obligations Act as Proper Officer to the council and carry out all statutory responsibilities associated with the role Advise the council on legal, procedural, governance and ethical matters Prepare agendas, reports, minutes and associated documentation for council and committee meetings Attend council and committee meetings, primarily held on Monday evenings Ensure council decisions are implemented effectively and within agreed timescales Maintain and review Standing Orders, Financial Regulations, policies and governance documentation Ensure compliance with transparency regulations, data protection legislation and Freedom of Information requirements Monitor legislative changes affecting local government and advise members accordingly Support councillors in their roles through professional advice, training and guidance Support the council through election processes, member induction and committee development Lead preparations for the May 2027 elections and associated governance transitions Strategic Leadership & Organisational Development Provide visible and effective organisational leadership across all council services Develop and implement strategic objectives and service improvement initiatives Support the council in planning for future devolution and expanded service responsibilities Lead organisational change, service development and operational resilience planning Build strong working relationships with partner organisations, local authorities, stakeholders and community groups Identify opportunities for innovation, partnership working and external funding Support long-term business planning, workforce planning and asset management Promote a culture of professionalism, accountability and continuous improvement Financial Management & Responsible Financial Officer Duties Act as the Responsible Financial Officer Ensure proper financial administration in accordance with statutory requirements and best practice including direct involvement in payment processing, reconciliations and financial administration Prepare annual budgets, financial forecasts and medium-term financial planning reports Monitor income, expenditure and reserves Present regular financial reports to council and committees Ensure effective internal financial controls are maintained Manage banking, investments, payroll and pension administration arrangements Oversee VAT administration and submission of VAT returns Lead preparation of the Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR) Liaise with internal and external auditors and ensure compliance with audit recommendations Ensure compliance with procurement requirements and financial regulations Oversee insurance arrangements, asset management and risk management processes Operational Management Provide line management, leadership and support to council employees Lead staff recruitment, appraisals, training and performance management Ensure compliance with employment legislation and council policies Oversee management of the Civic Centre and council-owned assets and facilities Ensure appropriate health and safety systems, inspections and procedures are in place Oversee contracts, maintenance arrangements and service delivery standards Ensure effective management of council facilities, open spaces, recreational assets and public amenities Support operational planning for events, functions and community activities Respond appropriately to emergencies, operational issues and public enquiries Community Engagement & Communications Act as the principal point of contact for residents, stakeholders and partner organisations Maintain positive and professional relationships with the public and community groups Support effective communication between councillors, staff and residents Oversee management of the council’s website, social media and public communications Prepare reports, press releases and public information materials Promote the council’s work, priorities and achievements within the community Support community engagement initiatives and partnership working opportunities General Responsibilities Maintain high standards of professionalism, integrity and confidentiality Promote equality, diversity and inclusion in all council activities and employment practices Undertake continuing professional development and maintain knowledge of local government legislation and best practice Attend training, conferences and professional events as required Undertake any other duties reasonably required by the council consistent with the level and nature of the post