Democratic & Electoral Services Officer

We have an exciting opportunity available for a Democratic & Electoral Services Officer to join our highly motivated Democratic Services team at Wokingham Borough Council, on a full time, permanent basis.

As a Democratic & Electoral Services Officer, you will primarily provide support to the delivery of effective and efficient democratic services processes. You will also work with the Electoral Services team, to assist in the delivery of local and national elections, referenda and parish and other polls.

The post sits at the heart of the Council and supports the delivery of the Council’s formal decision making and other democratic processes. This is a great opportunity to support local democracy, work alongside local politicians and senior officers across all departments, as well as to provide advice and information to members of the public.

If you want to start a career in this area or broaden your experience, then this is a great role for you!

Benefits:

Not only is this an excellent opportunity, but it’s a fantastic time to join our team. You will receive an extensive range of employee benefits including:

⭐ A generous annual leave entitlement of 27-28 days (rising to 32-33 days after 5 years continued local government service), plus Bank Holidays

⭐ An excellent local government pension scheme

⭐ Use of a free onsite gym (located at Shute End office)

⭐ Salary sacrifice car & cycle to work schemes

⭐ A range of local & lifestyle discounts

⭐ An employee assistance programme including 24/7 wellbeing helpline

⭐ And much more

Key responsibilities include:

• To provide guidance, advice and support to elected Councillors and Officers in the operation of the Council’s decision-making processes, relevant statutory provisions and the interpretation of the Council’s Constitution.
• To prepare agendas, decisions sheets, minutes, reports and associated correspondence as required for a number of Council committees and other formal meetings.
• To ensure that elected Councillors are supported in their role and responsibilities, including, assisting with arranging Councillors induction/briefing sessions and supporting and advising Councillors with registration of interests.
• Playing a key role in the organisation and conduct of all local and national elections, referenda and parish or other polls

Skills, qualifications and experience:

• You will be self-motivated and enthusiastic.
• Some knowledge and experience of working in democratic services is desirable but not essential.
• You will have an eye for detail and the ability to work under pressure whilst organising your own workload and working to tight deadlines.

Our Area

Wokingham Borough is set in the heart of Berkshire with excellent transport links to Reading and central London. Our area comprises of a vibrant and historical market town, attractive villages, and miles of beautiful countryside.

We’re home to a range of high performing schools, a host of international businesses and an incredible community. We have a strong local economy with accelerated growth, a range of excellent public facilities and low levels of crime, offering an exceptional quality of life.

If you’re interested in this exciting opportunity, click the link below and apply today!

To request further information or to have an informal discussion about this role, please email Priya Patel, Head of Democratic and Electoral Services at priya.patel@wokingham.gov.uk or telephone or on 07902 402031

Closing Date: Sunday 4th May 2025, 11pm

Interview Date: TBC

Please be aware that we will be reviewing the applications we receive on a daily basis, and we reserve the right to close the advert early if suitable candidates are identified.

If your application is shortlisted for an interview, you will be required to provide proof of your right to work in the UK at that stage. Additionally, successful candidates must present proof upon receiving a job offer.

Please note that all offers are conditional and subject to the satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks.

Wokingham Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff, other workers and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful candidates for this role will be subject to Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks along with other relevant employment checks.

Wokingham is an equal opportunities employer.