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Job Purpose

We are seeking a highly organised and politically aware Councillor and Governance Support Officer to provide essential support to elected Members, Cabinet Members and the Lord Mayor.

This is a varied and rewarding temporary position at the heart of local government, supporting senior political leaders and helping ensure the effective operation of democratic processes across one of the country's most high-profile local authorities.

Working Arrangements

• This role is primarily based on-site in London with very limited availability to work from home.
• There will also be occasions where attendance is required outside normal business hours, including evening meetings, civic functions, committee meetings and community events. Flexibility to support these commitments is essential.

Key Responsibilities

Executive Support

• Manage multiple complex diaries for Cabinet Members and the Lord Mayor.
• Coordinate and organise meetings involving internal and external stakeholders.
• Commission and coordinate briefing materials to ensure Members are fully prepared for meetings and events.
• Respond professionally to meeting requests and correspondence from key stakeholders.
• Attend meetings where required and prepare accurate minutes and action logs.
• Maintain forward plans and records of forthcoming meetings, briefings and commitments.
• Track actions arising from meetings and support progress reporting.
• Provide basic IT and technology support to elected Members where required.

Ward Budget Administration

• Support the administration of the Ward Budget Programme.
• Draft contracts and decision reports for review by senior colleagues.
• Produce programme and financial monitoring reports.
• Review project proposals and identify duplication or alignment with existing initiatives.
• Provide advice and guidance to Members regarding project suitability and programme requirements.

Governance and General Support

• Maintain the Councillor Information Hub and governance records.
• Support Member training and development activities.
• Maintain Registers of Interests and Gifts & Hospitality declarations.
• Assist Councillors with community engagement activities and events.
• Provide wider administrative and event support across the Committees and Councillors team.

Qualifications and Experience

• We are looking for a professional, resilient and organised individual with excellent relationship management skills and the ability to work confidently in a politically sensitive environment.
• You will be comfortable managing competing priorities, responding to changing demands and working with senior stakeholders while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.
• Experience supporting senior leaders, politicians or director-level stakeholders in an administrative capacity.
• Significant stakeholder and relationship management experience.
• Proven ability to manage competing priorities and meet demanding deadlines.
• Experience delivering high-quality administrative support with limited supervision.
• Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of audiences.
• Ability to work within a politically sensitive environment and handle confidential information appropriately.
• Relevant degree-level qualification or equivalent experience.
• Evidence of ongoing professional and personal development.
• A keen interest in local government and supporting senior decision-makers.

Desirable Experience

• Experience working in local government or a political environment.
• Complex diary management experience.
• Experience supporting elected Members or senior political stakeholders.
• Casework or complaints handling experience.
• Financial administration and record management experience.