Description

36 hours per week based at County Hall, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 2DN. We are looking to relocate back into the county by 2020.

From flexible working to job sharing (where possible) we are committed to providing a healthy work life balance. A laptop and mobile will be supplied if applicable to your role. You will benefit from 24 days annual leave, rising to 28 days after 2 years' service, a generous local government salary related pension, as well as the option to join our car lease scheme.

Surrey County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We want to be an inclusive and diverse employer of first choice reflecting the community we serve and particularly welcome applications from all under represented groups.

This post has been designated as a politically restricted post in accordance with the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.

About the role

Working at the heart of the Council's strategic decision-making processes in Democratic Services, you will provide support and guidance to Members in their local, strategic and civic roles. The role will involve day-to-day contact with county councillors and senior officers in organising committee business.

In this challenging and varied post, you will be managing and co-ordinating the work of one of the County Council's scrutiny committees. Tasks will include planning inquiries, carrying out research and collecting evidence, drafting reports and briefing papers, advising on policy options and providing procedural advice to Members and officers. In addition to this you will also be responsible for managing task groups linked to the Council's select committees.

You will possess excellent communication, negotiation and influencing skills with strong political awareness and the ability to analyse problems and issues. The ability to manage a diverse workload to deadlines, work to agreed procedures and translate complex information into clear, concise reports will be vital.

A broad understanding of the law and practice of meetings and an enthusiasm for government and politics is desirable. You will also need sound judgement, political sensitivity and a creative, innovative approach to the job.