Job Description

Job description

The Town Clerk will serve as the Head of Paid Service for Haywards Heath Town Council, providing dynamic leadership to deliver the Council's vision and strategic objectives. As the Council's Proper Officer, the post-holder will work in close partnership with elected members to shape policy, drive forward high-quality service delivery, and champion the economic, social, and environmental wellbeing of Haywards Heath.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership and Corporate Planning

Lead the development, delivery, and regular review of the Council's Green Paper (Corporate Plan) and long-term strategic objectives. Advise elected members on policy development, emerging opportunities, and community priorities. Promote innovation and continuous improvement in all Council services.
2. Community and Economic Development

Foster strong partnerships with public, private, and voluntary sector organisations to enhance Haywards Heath's economic vitality and quality of life. Promote Haywards Heath as a destination for business investment and community engagement. Identify, secure, and manage external funding, sponsorship, and investment opportunities.
3. Organisational and People Leadership

Lead, motivate, and develop the Council's workforce, ensuring a culture of professionalism, collaboration, and accountability. Implement effective performance management and staff development programmes to ensure high-quality service delivery.
4. Asset and Financial Stewardship

Oversee strategic management, maintenance, and development of Council assets, ensuring value for money and long-term sustainability.
5. Major Project Delivery

Lead the initiation, feasibility assessment, funding, and delivery of major projects, ensuring they meet community needs and are delivered on time and within budget.
6. Governance and Compliance

Fulfil all statutory duties as the Council's Proper Officer in accordance with the Local Government Act 1972 and other relevant legislation. Ensure that Council decisions are implemented efficiently, transparently, and in line with policies and procedures. Oversee compliance with Health and Safety legislation and risk management policies.
7. External Representation and Communications

Act as the principal ambassador for Haywards Heath Town Council, representing its interests at local, regional, and national levels. Manage the Council's public relations, media, and communication strategies to maintain a positive public profile.

Responsibilities

Handle incoming and outgoing correspondence via email, phone, and postal services with professional phone etiquette. Maintain accurate records through data entry and filing systems, ensuring all information is up-to-date and easily accessible. Utilise Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Google Workspace to prepare documents, reports, and presentations. Manage financial records using QuickBooks or similar accounting software, including invoicing and expense tracking. Assist in organising meetings, appointments, and schedules for staff members. Perform general clerical duties such as photocopying, scanning, and faxing documents. Support administrative projects as required, demonstrating organisational skills and attention to detail.

Skills

Key Skills and Attributes:

Strong strategic leadership and management abilities Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills Proven experience in policy development, strategic planning, and project delivery Ability to manage budgets, financial systems, and procurement processes Skilled in partnership working and stakeholder engagement Sound understanding of local government law, governance, and compliance Competence in risk management and Health & Safety responsibilities Proficiency in IT systems, including Microsoft 365 Ability to manage change and foster innovation High level of integrity, resilience, and political sensitivity Flexible approach to working hours, including evenings and weekends

Desirable:

CiLCA qualification and/or SLCC membership Experience in local government and economic development initiatives Advanced project management skills Public speaking and media handling experience Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 68,053.00-74,454.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Free parking On-site parking Sick pay
Work Location: In person