Rowde Parish Council • Rowde, Devizes
About this role
This is a pivotal role serving a rural village with a strong commitment to its community and local environment
ABOUT THE ROLE As the Council's sole employee, you will be the head of administration ("Proper Officer") and the lead for financial affairs, responsible for the internal management and organisation of tasks and policies set by the Council. You will work from home, providing your own office space while the Council ensures you have the necessary support and equipment to perform your duties.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
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Administration
Organise, prepare for, and attend Council meetings, producing accurate agendas and minutes.
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Professional Advice
Provide expert advice to 11 Councillors to ensure all decisions and actions are legal and compliant.
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Finance (RFO)
Manage day-to-day finances using relevant software, lead annual budget setting (typically reviewed in October), and ensure VAT recovery and accurate financial reporting.
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Project Oversight
Implement Council decisions and oversee local projects, including participation in the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group.
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Statutory Compliance
Serve as the primary officer for Data Protection (GDPR) and Freedom of Information (FOI) requests.
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Asset Management
Manage Council facilities including open spaces, amenity areas, allotments, and the playing field.
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Communication
Update the village website with statutory documents and contribute a Parish Council summary for the bi-monthly village magazine.
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Representation
Attend external meetings on behalf of the Council, such as the LHIFG and Devizes Area Board
CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS
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Experience
We are seeking a clerk with experience of local government law, governance, and finance
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Qualifications
Ideally CiLCA qualified (or willing to obtain this within 12 months).
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Communication
Excellent managerial and administrative skills, with the ability to communicate succinctly and clearly, including by email
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Resilience
The ability to remain calm and professional during heated debates or challenging situations
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Attributes
Highly motivated, community-focused, and able to combine professional integrity with a collaborative and pragmatic approach
WHAT WE OFFER
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Salary
Salary will be negotiated based on experience and relevant national pay scales RPC
Remote-first hybrid — most work is remote, with one evening meeting per month and other occasional in-person meetings.
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Supportive Environment
We have established a dedicated Staffing & Finance Committee specifically tasked with Human Resources and providing the Clerk with formal management and support.
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Professional Integrity
RPC has signed the Civility and Respect Pledge and operates under a robust Dignity at Work Policy, ensuring a workplace based on mutual respect and a zero-tolerance approach to bullying.
HOW TO APPLY Please send your CV and a covering letter to: Cllr.l.Wills@rowdeparishcouncil.gov.uk
Rowde Parish Council is an Equal Opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.