Holbeach Parish Council - vacancy for a Temporary Acting Parish Clerk 

 

Job Title: Temporary Acting Parish Clerk

Employer: Holbeach Parish Council

Location: Holbeach, Lincolnshire

Contract: Temporary (Acting), Part-Time

Reporting to: Holbeach Parish Council

Salary: In accordance with NJC pay scales (pro rata, dependent on experience)


Purpose of the Role

The Temporary Acting Parish Clerk is responsible for supporting the effective administration and governance of Holbeach Parish Council. The Clerk will act as the Proper Officer to the Council, ensuring that Council business is conducted lawfully and efficiently.

This role does not include Responsible Financial Officer (RFO) responsibilities.


Key Responsibilities

  • Act as Proper Officer to the Council in accordance with the Local Government Act 1972 and other relevant legislation.

  • Prepare agendas in consultation with the Chairman and issue summons and supporting papers for Council and committee meetings.

  • Attend Council meetings (including evening meetings), take accurate minutes, and ensure timely publication.

  • Provide procedural and legal advice to Councillors to ensure lawful decision-making.

  • Implement Council decisions and monitor progress of actions.

  • Maintain and update Council policies, procedures, and statutory documents.

  • Ensure compliance with statutory obligations, including:

    • Publication of agendas and minutes

    • Data protection (GDPR)

    • Freedom of Information requests

    • Code of Conduct procedures

  • Act as the main point of contact for residents, external bodies, and partner organisations.

  • Manage correspondence and maintain accurate Council records.

  • Oversee Council staff (if applicable) in line with Council policies.

  • Liaise with district and county councils, contractors, and community groups.

  • Support ongoing projects and initiatives as directed by the Council.

  • Ensure transparency and effective communication, including website updates where required.


Exclusions from Role

  • The Clerk will not undertake Responsible Financial Officer (RFO) duties.

  • The Clerk will not be responsible for budget management, accounts preparation, banking, payroll, or financial reporting.


Person Specification

Essential:

  • Previous experience as a Parish Clerk or in local government administration.

  • Sound knowledge of local government law and procedures.

  • Strong organisational and administrative skills.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

  • Ability to provide clear, impartial advice to elected members.

  • IT proficiency, including Microsoft Office.

  • Ability to work independently and manage workload effectively.

Desirable:

  • CiLCA qualification (or working towards).

  • Experience working with committees and community stakeholders.

  • Knowledge of parish council governance frameworks.


Working Hours

Part-time hours to be agreed, including attendance at evening meetings.


Duration

This is a temporary acting appointment to cover a defined interim period.


Please apply outlining your experience and including your CV to the Chairman, Cllr Adrian Haslett - Adrian.Haslett@holbeachpc.com