How to apply:
CV and covering letter explaining how you meet each aspect of the person specification
Hours:
21 per week (0.6 FTE)
Contract type:
Permanent
About the Council
The Town Council represents the thriving and picturesque Henley-on-Thames, bordered by both the Chilterns and the River Thames. Henley is renowned for its beautiful market town facilities, its sporting achievements, and an ever-growing programme of cultural and recreational events.
The Town Council is the first tier of local government, with 16 councillors and a staff of c.30. We are one of the busiest town councils in the country, providing a wide range of quality services including parks, recreation grounds, open spaces, sports and arts facilities, allotments, cemetery, moorings, car parks, a visitor information service, and community buildings. We also have an extensive property portfolio and significant financial investments.
We are a very ambitious town council, dedicated not only to fulfilling our statutory functions, but leading on a wide range of projects and services to benefit the community. Recent and ongoing projects include a new adventure playground and installation of air source heat pumps and solar panels on Council-owned buildings; a new 3G football pitch; provide a new sports pavilion, parks depot, and more affordable housing for the town; expanding the town bus service; renovating several Council buildings; creating new pedestrian crossings; improving the Christmas Festival and lights; and campaigning for better water quality in the Thames.
The Council has also declared both climate and nature emergencies and is dedicated to leading on schemes to improve biodiversity, sustainability and reduce emissions throughout the town.
Purpose of the role
The Estate Officer provides administrative support for the good management of the Council’s assets. They ensure the needs of the Council’s tenants and licence holders are met; assist with coordinating regular and ad‑hoc maintenance of Council‑run buildings and support the Estate Manager in projects relating to the Council’s built assets.
Duties and responsibilities
* Provide a first point of contact for tenants and licence holders to report maintenance issues or other concerns.
* Assist the Town Sergeant and Estate Manager in obtaining quotes and preparing reports on the appointment of contractors.
* Monitor health and safety compliance of Council buildings, maintaining accurate records relating to health and safety, maintenance schedules and contractor work.
* In conjunction with the Estate Manager, carry out six‑monthly inspections of tenanted properties, recording findings and actioning solutions to any maintenance, safety, or compliance issues.
* Plan and coordinate health and safety training sessions for Estates and Parks staff.
* Service internal and external meetings, and committee meetings, including producing and issuing agendas, reports, and minutes.
* To assist the Estate Manager in other projects pertaining to the upkeep of Council assets.
* To provide back‑office support to the Parks team, as directed by the Estate Manager.
* To support the Estates team with the administration of the sports pitches at Jubilee Park, including issuing partnership agreements and managing the booking system, as well as providing administrative support for Fairmile Cemetery and maintaining records using the asset management software.
* In conjunction with the Estate Manager maintain and review records of the Council’s land, including title deeds, leases, licences, covenants, and tenant and landlord maintenance obligations.
* To carry out such duties as the Council may require from time to time.
Person Specification
* Excellent oral and written communication skills
* Strong analytical skills
* Effective prioritisation and delegation skills
* The ability to build effective working relationships
* The ability to work well in a team
* The ability to act impartially in a political environment
* Willingness to work occasional evening meetings, as required
* Educated to degree level or equivalent
* Knowledge of UK health and safety legislation
* Qualifications in a relevant subject, such as property law, property administration or management
* Previous experience working in the local government sector
* Knowledge and experience of committee work
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