Summary: The Interim Senior Committee Manager will collaborate with the Democratic Services Manager and Committee Managers to provide constitutional and governance advice to elected members and senior officers. This role is essential for maintaining high-quality democratic governance processes and ensuring compliance with legislative frameworks during a period of structural change. The position requires effective organization of Council meetings and the ability to deliver training on democratic procedures.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure lawful and constitutionally compliant decision-making procedures are in place and followed across all Council meetings.
• Maintain and regularly update the Council's Constitution, associated governance protocols, and guidance documents.
• Provide expert constitutional advice to elected members, officers, and external stakeholders as required.
• Ensure the effective organisation and facilitation of Council meetings in line with corporate policies.
• Draft, present, and respond to reports and recommendations relating to Democratic Services.
• Support the Democratic Services Manager in setting and upholding corporate governance standards and best practices.
• Deliver or assist with the delivery of training for officers and members on democratic and decision-making procedures.
• Keep abreast of current and emerging legislation and best practices through research and collaboration (including with networks such as ADSO).
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement within the governance team, adapting practices to align with evolving governance structures.

Key Skills:

• Substantial experience working in Democratic and Committee Services, with detailed knowledge of council constitutions or similar governance structures.
• Proven ability to interpret legislation and explain governance implications to stakeholders.
• Experience working closely with elected members and senior leadership, providing accurate constitutional/statutory advice.
• Degree-level education or equivalent relevant work experience.
• ADSO qualification or a related governance/legal credential (desirable).
• In-depth understanding of local government law, rules, and procedures in a democratic context.
• Strong experience providing advice during live committee meetings.
• Ability to work in politically sensitive environments with diplomacy and discretion.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong planning and organisational skills, able to manage multiple tasks to tight deadlines.
• Confidence influencing senior officers, members, staff, and partners.
• Familiarity with committee management software (e.g., Civica Modern.Gov or similar).

Salary (Rate): 28.00

City: Cambridge

Country: UK

Working Arrangements: undetermined

IR35 Status: inside IR35

Seniority Level: undetermined

Industry: Other