Electoral Services Manager

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Please apply online via the link provided.

Please note, we do not accept CVs submitted without a fully completed online application form.

We have an excellent opportunity available for an Electoral Services Manager to join our Democratic and Electoral Services team at Wokingham Borough Council on a full time, permanent basis.

As the Electoral Services Manager, you will play a pivotal role in leading and managing the Electoral Services Team. You will be responsible for fulfilling the statutory duties of the Returning Officer for the project planning, management and delivery of all types of elections and referenda including: Parliamentary, Local Council, by-elections for any of the aforementioned, referenda (local, regional and national) and any other elections or referenda as required. In accordance with legislation and Electoral Commission Guidance, acting as a Deputy RO with full power to carry out those duties.

This role will be responsible for fulfilling the statutory duties of the Electoral Registration Officer for the preparation, maintenance and publication of the Electoral Register in accordance with legislation and Electoral Commission Guidance.

Please note this is a politically restricted post.

Benefits

Not only is this an excellent opportunity, but it’s a fantastic time to join our team. You will receive an extensive range of employee benefits including:

⭐ A generous annual leave entitlement of 31 days (rising to 36 days after 5 years continued local government service), plus Bank Holidays

⭐ An excellent local government pension scheme

⭐ Use of a free onsite gym (located at Shute End office)

⭐ Salary sacrifice car & cycle to work schemes

⭐ A range of local & lifestyle discounts

⭐ An employee assistance programme including 24/7 wellbeing helpline

⭐ And much more

Key responsibilities:

• Responsible for the day-to-day management of the Electoral Services Section, including advising the Head of Democratic Services and Electoral Services and Returning Officer in respect of electoral registration and administration.
• Assisting in the strategic management of all electoral processes, including Parliamentary, Local Council, by-elections for any of the aforementioned, referenda (local, regional and national) and any other elections or referenda as required. In accordance with legislation and Electoral Commission Guidance, acting as a Deputy RO with full power to carry out those duties.
• Responsibility for the compilation, publication and alteration of the maintenance of accurate registers of electors in accordance with statutory provisions and local procedures; organising canvassing and other processes to maximise responses and engagement.
• Lead in the promotion of voter registration in order to maximise registration rates, including accessing hard-to-reach groups, and maintaining an understanding of techniques designed for this purpose. To lead in promoting increased participation in voting through, among other things, promoting an understanding of democratic processes.

Candidate requirements:

• A high level of political sensitivity and impartiality.
• Excellent IT skills including Office software such as Microsoft Word, Outlook, PowerPoint and Excel.
• A good working knowledge of Xpress.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with an ability to vary style to meet the needs of the audience, including presenting information and advice to Candidates, Agents, Councillors and senior managers.

Our Area

Wokingham Borough is set in the heart of Berkshire with excellent transport links to Reading and central London. Our area comprises of a vibrant and historical market town, attractive villages, and miles of beautiful countryside.

We’re home to a range of high performing schools, a host of international businesses and an incredible community. We have a strong local economy with accelerated growth, a range of excellent public facilities and low levels of crime, offering an exceptional quality of life.

If you’re interested in this exciting opportunity, click the link below and apply today!

To request further information or to have an informal discussion about this role, please email Priya Patel, Head of Democratic and Electoral Services at priya.patel@wokingham.gov.uk or telephone or on 07902 402031

Closing Date: 11pm, Sunday 13th July

Interview Date: Monday 21st July

Please be aware that we will be reviewing the applications we receive on a daily basis, and we reserve the right to close the advert early if suitable candidates are identified.

If your application is shortlisted for an interview, you will be required to provide proof of your right to work in the UK at that stage. Additionally, successful candidates must present proof upon receiving a job offer.

Please note that all offers are conditional and subject to the satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks.

Wokingham Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff, other workers and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful candidates for this role will be subject to Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks along with other relevant employment checks.

Wokingham is an equal opportunities employer.