3-6 month contract role with a Local Authority

Job Summary:

• Senior Governance Officer – Basildon Borough Council.

• Full-time, temporary (36.25 hours per week), 3–6 months contract (part-time 30 hours considered).

• Hybrid role: minimum 3 days per week on-site in Basildon, Essex.

• Supporting the Council’s democratic and decision-making processes, including committees, Cabinet, and internal/external meetings.

Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):

• Timetable, manage, and coordinate meetings of Cabinet, Committees, Sub-Committees, and Panels, including quasi-judicial hearings.

• Prepare agendas, collate materials, write reports, and ensure deadlines are met.

• Attend meetings (often evenings) and provide procedural, legal, and constitutional advice to Members.

• Provide guidance across the organisation on decision-making and democratic processes.

• Maintain work plans, act as meeting manager for allocated meetings, and drive the agenda business planning system.

• Liaise with the public, Officers, and Members to foster effective working relationships.

• Contribute to service improvements and ensure compliance with the Council’s Constitution and legislation.

Skills/Experience:

• Minimum 3 years’ experience providing administrative support to committees

• Experience working with Elected Members

• Knowledge of relevant legislation and Council Constitution procedures

• Project management experience

• Excellent organisational and prioritisation skills, able to manage multiple tasks under tight deadlines

• Strong written communication, including report writing and minute-taking

• Excellent IT skills, including Microsoft Office

• Flexible approach with willingness to attend evening meetings

• Ability to establish effective relationships with Members and Officers at all levels.

Additional Information:

• The closing date: 09/03/2026.

• Pre-employment vetting required.

• Location: Basildon Borough Council.