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Head of Democratic Services

Eden Brown Synergy are working with a leading local authority based in London who are seeking an experienced Head of Democratic Services & Scrutiny to provide strategic leadership and management of the Organisation's Democratic Services and Scrutiny functions.
This opportunity offers the chance to lead a high-profile service, working closely with senior officers, elected members, and key stakeholders to ensure effective governance, robust scrutiny, and the delivery of high-quality democratic processes.

The role offers hybrid working, though attendance at formal committee meetings and key in-person engagements will be required.

Key Responsibilities:
* Lead, manage, and develop the Organisation's Democratic Services, Scrutiny, and Member support functions.
* Provide expert constitutional, procedural, and governance advice to elected members and senior officers.
* Ensure effective organisation and delivery of all democratic decision-making processes, including committee meetings and member development.
* Develop and enhance the Organisation's scrutiny function to ensure constructive challenge, performance review, and improved accountability.
* Support the Organisation's recovery and improvement plans through the delivery of first-class governance and democratic services.
* Act as the Organisation's statutory Scrutiny Officer, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
* Lead, motivate, and manage staff within the service, promoting high performance, continuous improvement, and a positive working environment.

Essential Skills and Experience:
* Proven senior management experience in a large, complex organisation, ideally within local government or the public sector.
* Strong understanding of local government structures, legislation, and democratic processes.
* Demonstrable experience in leading democratic, governance, or scrutiny functions.
* Excellent communication, negotiation, and influencing skills with the ability to build strong relationships with elected members and stakeholders.
* Strong organisational and leadership skills with a commitment to service improvement and innovation.
* Experience of financial and budgetary management, with a focus on delivering value for money.
* Ability to embrace and implement digital approaches to improve service delivery.

Desirable:
* Membership of a relevant professional or chartered body.
* Experience of leading organisational change and service transformation.
* Experience delivering large projects or programmes within a governance or democratic services environment.
If this role feels of potential interest, please apply with an up-to-date CV for immediate consideration.

Eden Brown Synergy is an equal opportunities employer.

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