Governance and Members Officer – Braintree District Council
Permanent, Full Time. Salary £31,284 to £35,721 per annum. Location: Braintree. Closing date: 27th May 2026.
About the role
The role supports Elected Members and the Council’s democratic processes by organising and delivering committee meetings, providing timely access to information, and delivering high‑quality governance service. The successful candidate will work directly with Members, officers and customers to ensure effective, efficient and professional committee and Member support. The role also offers the opportunity to participate in the delivery of other service functions, including election support. The position involves evening meetings.
Job accountabilities
* Maintain systems of good governance to ensure responsibilities and decision‑making processes are lawful, clear and transparent in line with the Council’s constitution.
* Provide high‑quality support to Members and the democratic process, ensuring public and external parties can engage effectively.
* Contribute to overall committee administration and governance, servicing Council, Cabinet and all committees, including Overview and Scrutiny, Licensing, Planning, Sub‑Committees, Working Groups and Panels, to meet Member, officer and customer needs and support smooth running of committees.
To include:
* Prepare and coordinate agendas and reports to high standards, implementing quality control processes.
* Ensure legal requirements for notification and publication are met.
* Determine when information should be treated as exempt.
* Prepare minutes that record decisions appropriately.
* Manage and archive agendas, reports and minutes according to legal and best practice requirements.
* Advise Committee Chairmen, Members, officers and the public on the Council’s Constitution and governance in relation to meetings, in line with legislative requirements.
* Operate politically sensitively and remain neutral, supporting all political groups impartially.
* Provide advice and support to Members regarding the Code of Conduct and declarations of interests.
* Deliver an effective and reliable service to Members, including signposting to council services, handling enquiries, supporting member induction and development.
* Maintain personal health and attendance records and manage staff attendance.
* Adhere to quality and governance procedures as directed by management.
* Apply and promote the principles of the Council’s Equal Opportunities Policy across all areas.
* Perform other duties as required to support the business, including maintaining continuity during civil emergencies.
* Carry out additional duties outlined by the Head of Service or representative.
* Advise Line Manager if duties cannot be performed.
Experience
* Flexible, professional approach and ability to build strong working relationships with colleagues, clients and Elected Members.
* Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
* Strong administrative and time‑management capabilities.
* Experience in committee administration, including accurate minute‑taking.
* High level of attention to detail.
* Understanding of local government decision‑making processes.
Desirable experience includes
* Committee administration, particularly minute‑taking.
* Experience working with a committee management system.
* Experience using virtual meeting platforms such as Zoom and/or Microsoft Teams.
Benefits
* Hybrid working arrangements available (home/office) subject to business need.
* Competitive pay and benefits.
* Flexible working.
* Local Government Pension Scheme Defined Benefit Scheme.
* Free car parking.
* Learning and development for all staff.
* Staff discounts.
* Employee Assistance Programme.
* Staff recognition schemes.
* Extensive health and wellbeing programme, including discounted gym membership.
Application information
Closing date for receipt of applications: Wednesday 27th May. Interviews will take place from 8th to 11th June. Essex County Council is advertising this role on behalf of Braintree District Council; if successful you will be employed by Braintree District Council.
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