Highwood Parish Council is seeking an enthusiastic, organised and community-focused individual to become its next Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer (RFO).
This is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong administrative, financial and organisational skills who enjoys working independently while supporting a proactive Parish Council and serving the local community.
The Council welcomes applications from both experienced Clerks and those looking to begin a career in local government. Training and professional development will be supported, including obtaining the Certificate in Local Council Administration (CiLCA) where appropriate. A full handover, including demonstrations of each application will be given in detail over a period of one month.
About the Role
The Clerk is the Proper Officer of the Council and is responsible for ensuring the Council operates effectively, lawfully and transparently. As Responsible Financial Officer, you will also oversee the Council's financial administration and advise councillors on governance, legislation and best practice.
The successful candidate will work closely with elected councillors to deliver council decisions and support the ongoing development of the parish.
Key Responsibilities
· Prepare agendas and produce accurate minutes for Council meetings.
· Attend monthly evening Parish Council meetings on the 3rd Monday bi-monthly.
· Provide professional advice on local government legislation, procedures and governance.
· Manage all Council correspondence, public enquiries and community projects.
· Maintain the Council's financial records, process payments and receipts, and prepare financial reports using Edge IT Software.
· Prepare and monitor the Council's budget.
· Complete the Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR).
· Manage insurance, contracts and council assets.
· Ensure compliance with statutory requirements, including Freedom of Information, Data Protection and Transparency Code obligations.
· Liaise with residents, contractors, Uttlesford District Council, Essex County Council and other organisations.
· Maintain the Council's website and publish statutory information.
Person Specification
The ideal candidate will have:
· Excellent organisational and administrative skills.
· Strong written and verbal communication skills.
· Good financial management skills and attention to detail.
· Confidence using Microsoft Office and online systems.
· The ability to work independently and manage competing priorities.
· Integrity, professionalism and discretion.
· Previous experience in local government including a Certificate in Local Council Administration (CiLCA) qualification is desirable; however, candidates who do not already hold the qualification must be willing to undertake and successfully complete it following appointment, with the support of the Council.
What We Offer
· Flexible and predominantly home-based working.
· Paid annual leave in accordance with the National Joint Council (NJC) terms and conditions.
· Ongoing professional training and development.
· Membership of the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC), where appropriate.
· A supportive Council committed to serving its community.
How to Apply
To apply, please send your current CV and covering letter explaining why you are interested in the role and how your skills and experience meet the requirements to- [email protected].
Pay: £18.35-£20.29 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Remote
