Leiston-cum-Sizewell Town Council
Job Description and Person Specification
Post Title: Deputy Town Clerk (Designate)
Reporting to: Town Clerk and Full Council
Location: Leiston-cum-Sizewell Town Council Offices
Hours: Full-time (including some evenings and weekends)
Salary: SCP28 £39,152 plus Local Government Pension Scheme (This salary will be likely change with NJC pay awards expected to be around 3%)
Contract: Permanent (subject to probation)
1. Job Purpose
To support the Town Clerk in effective strategic leadership, administration. management, legal compliance and day to day operations of Leiston–cum-Sizewell Town Council, and to act as Deputy and successor (designate) with a structured development pathway.
2. Key Responsibilities
Governance and Administration
* Support the Town Clerk in strategic planning for the future
* Support the implementation of Council decisions, policies and projects
* Support Council and Committee meetings, including preparation of agendas, reports, and minutes
* Assist in ensuring the Council operates within statutory requirements and follows proper procedures
* Deputise for the Town Clerk when required and assist in governance, compliance, and strategic and operational delivery as part of a mentoring programme
* - Support Councillors in day to day matters
Meetings and Democratic Support
* Attend Full Council meetings (evening) and some committee meetings
* Ensure correct procedures are followed during committee meeting
* Record accurate minutes and maintain any official records.
Operational Management
* Assist all staff in day to day administration of council services and facilities
* Assist in managing Town Council owned assets (open spaces, community facilities and buildings)
* Assist the Town Clerk with risk management across all assets, projects and events
Community and Stakeholder Engagement
* Act as a point of contact for residents, businesses and partners
* Support the delivery of community projects and events
* Ensure high standards of communication, transparency, and professionalism
Finance and Budget Support
* Assist the Town Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer (RFO) in annual budget preparation
* Assist the Town Clerk and RFO in managing budgets in specified areas
* Support the Town Clerk and RFO in funding applications and bid writing
Deputising Duties
* Act as Proper Officer when required
* Provide leadership and continuity in the absence of the Town Clerk
* Engage in a mentoring programme as Town Clerk (designate)
General Duties
* Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times
* Undertake training and continuous professional development
* Carry out other duties appropriate to the role as required.
3. Person Specification
It is an essential that the applicant has the aspiration to progress to the Town Clerk role in May 2027 when the existing Town Clerk will retire, and Town Council Elections will determine a new Council. An ideal time for a new Town Clerk to move forward. A structured mentoring programme will assist the Town Clerk (Designate) to prepare for the transition to the role. Council intends, on appointing a Town Clerk (designate) to involve the successful candidate in appointing a Deputy (designate) as part of the succession planning.
Essential
Desirable
Qualifications and Knowledge
* Good standard of education
* Knowledge of local government
* Understanding of governance and meeting procedures
* Certificate in Local Council Administration (CiLCA) or willingness to study.
* Understanding of UK legislation relevant to councils (e.g. Local Government Act
Experience
* Experience in local government and project management
* Experience in preparing agendas minutes and formal documentation
* Experience of dealing with stakeholders and with the public
* Experience working in a Unitary, District, Town, Parish Council or Government Body
* Experience of Project Management
Skills
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills
* Strong organisational and time management skills
* Ability to prioritise workload and meet deadline
* Good IT skills (Microsoft Office, Email systems)
* Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Personal Attributes
* Professional, reliable, and discreet.
* Flexible and adaptable.
* Strong attention to detail.
* Willingness to attend evening meetings.
Additional Requirements
* Ability to travel locally if required.
* Commitment to public service and community engagement