Democratic Services Manager (Maternity Cover, 1 Year Fixed Term, ending 31 March 2026)
Location: Dunstable
Hours: Full-time (Part-time or job share considered)
Salary: £34,314

Make a Difference in Dunstable 

Dunstable Town Council is looking for an enthusiastic individual to join our team on a one-year maternity cover contract in the role of Democratic Services Manager. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in ensuring the smooth running of our council meetings, supporting the Town Mayor, and managing civic events. 

What You’ll Do: 

  • Organise and support council meetings, including preparing agendas, taking minutes, and ensuring compliance with regulations. 
  • Assist the Mayor and Deputy Mayor with their engagements 
  • Lead on arranging civic events such as Mayor Making and the Civic Service. 
  • Act as the first point of contact for councillors. 
  • Maintain council records and ensure meetings and administration run smoothly. 
  • Work closely with internal teams and external organisations to deliver high-quality democratic services. 

What We’re Looking For: 

  • A well organised administrator with a good command of English who pays attention to detail, with strong ICT and report writing skills. 
  • Someone confident in their ability to build and maintain constructive relationships with a wide variety of stakeholders both internally and externally. 
  • The post holder will also need to demonstrate an understanding of the importance of political sensitivity. 
  • An understanding or experience of local councils and electronic agenda management systems would be an advantage but is not required. 
  • Willingness to work regular Monday evenings and occasionally on other evenings and weekends for meetings and events. 

Why You’ll Love Working With Us: 

  • Work in a dynamic and supportive environment. 
  • Be part of a team that is passionate about our community. 
  • Gain valuable experience in local government. 
  • Flexible working arrangements available, including part-time or job share. 
  • Competitive salary and great benefits 
  • Generous pension scheme with excellent employer contributions 
  • Generous annual leave to make sure you get the downtime you need 

 

If you’re ready to help make a difference, we’d love to hear from you! 

Apply today or contact us for an informal chat about the role. 

Job Profile – Democratic Services Manager 

Job Purpose 

To provide high-quality administrative and governance support to Dunstable Town Council, ensuring the smooth operation of democratic processes, council meetings, and civic events. 

Key Responsibilities 

Supporting the Democratic Process 

  • Organise council meetings, ensuring agendas, reports, and minutes are prepared and distributed on time. 
  • Maintain an accurate record of councillor attendance and decisions made. 
  • Assist with planning consultations and ensure effective communication of council decisions. 

Mayoral and Civic Support 

  • Manage the Mayor’s diary, arranging official engagements and providing relevant information. 
  • Organise civic events and charity functions, ensuring all protocols are followed. 
  • Administer the Mayor’s Charity Accounts and maintain financial records. 
  • Oversee the inventory of civic regalia and ensure supplies are maintained. 

Member Support and Engagement 

  • Act as the main point of contact for councillors, providing information and guidance. 
  • Keep the council website and social media updated with relevant democratic service information. 

Skills & Experience Required 

  • Strong communication skills to interact with elected members, the public, and partner organisations. 
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently, meeting set deadlines. 
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience using digital platforms. 
  • Willingness to work flexibly, including occasional evenings and weekends. 

Additional Information 

This is a one-year fixed-term maternity cover role. Part-time or job share arrangements may be considered. 

Join us and help shape the future of Dunstable! 

Details on how to apply can be found on the last page of our recruitment pack.

Closing date: Monday 17 February, 12 noon

Shortlisting: Tuesday 18 February

Interview dates: Friday 28 February