Parish council clerk and Responsible finance officer
Pay: Workplace pension scheme with employer contributions in line with UK auto‑enrolment requirements.
Contract Type: Permanent
Closing Date: 27/06/2026
About this job
This pivotal role serves a rural village with a strong commitment to its community and local environment. As the Council's sole employee, you will be the head of administration and the lead for financial affairs, responsible for the internal management and organisation of tasks and policies set by the Council.
You will work from home, providing your own office space while the Council ensures you have the necessary support and equipment to perform your duties.
Key Responsibilities
* Administration: Organise, prepare for, and attend Council meetings, producing accurate agendas and minutes.
* Professional Advice: Provide expert advice to 11 Councillors to ensure all decisions and actions are legal and compliant.
* Finance (RFO): Manage day‑to‑day finances using relevant software, lead annual budget setting (typically reviewed in October), and ensure VAT recovery and accurate financial reporting.
* Project Oversight: Implement Council decisions and oversee local projects, including participation in the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group.
* Statutory Compliance: Serve as the primary officer for Data Protection (GDPR) and Freedom of Information (FOI) requests.
* Asset Management: Manage Council facilities including open spaces, amenity areas, allotments, and the playing field.
* Communication: Update the village website with statutory documents and contribute a Parish Council summary for the bi‑monthly village magazine.
* Representation: Attend external meetings on behalf of the Council, such as the LHIFG and Devizes Area Board.
Candidate Requirements
* Experience: Clerk with experience of local government law, governance, and finance.
* Qualifications: Ideally CiLCA qualified (or willing to obtain within 12 months).
* Communication: Excellent managerial and administrative skills, with the ability to communicate succinctly and clearly, including by email.
* Resilience: Ability to remain calm and professional during heated debates or challenging situations.
* Attributes: Highly motivated, community‑focused, able to combine professional integrity with a collaborative and pragmatic approach.
What We Offer
* Salary: Negotiated based on experience and national pay scales.
* Remote‑first hybrid: Most work remote, with one evening meeting per month and occasional in‑person meetings.
* Supportive Environment: Dedicated Staffing & Finance Committee providing formal management and support.
* Professional Integrity: Signed Civility and Respect Pledge, Dignity at Work Policy, zero‑tolerance approach to bullying.
Rowde Parish Council is an Equal Opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
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