Parish Clerk

**Vacancy for Parish Clerk for Arborfield and Newland Parish Council**

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Parish Clerk to join our dynamic and forward-thinking Parish Council. Arborfield and Newland Parish Council (the Council) is seeking a proactive and dedicated individual to play a pivotal role in the continued growth and development of our community, the Parish of Arborfield and all our residents. Our Council seeks to be active, responsive to the needs of the community, a strong advocate for the Parish in the wider Borough and creative in the use of our Parish owned assets.
- **Key Responsibilities**:_

**Administrative Excellence**: Manage the day-to-day administrative functions of the Council, including organizing meetings, preparing agendas, maintaining accurate records and ensuring the Council complies with its policies and standing orders.

**Project Management**: Collaborate with the councillors, the Responsible Financial Officer (RFO) and local organizations on various initiatives and projects, including the Council’s environmental projects, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.

**Community Engagement**: Foster positive relationships with the community, engaging residents, responding promptly to issues, and encouraging their participation in Council activities and projects.

**Borough Council engagement**: Develop and maintain positive relationships with key departments and officers at Wokingham Borough Council and represent the needs of Arborfield in Borough policy; be an active voice in the Borough clerks’ forum and represent the Council in any Borough-Parish liaison activities.

**Policy Implementation**: Work closely with councillors to implement Council policies, supporting them in their decision-making processes and preparing reports for councillors based on input from external consultants, the Borough Council and/or supplier quotations.

**Communication Skills**: Effectively communicate Council decisions, policies, and initiatives to the community through various channels, including the Council website, the Arborfield News, social media, newsletters, and public meetings.

**People Management**: Manage the Council’s employees and contractors effectively and efficiently to ensure work tasks are completed on time. Foster a collaborative and positive working environment and keep all employees informed about the Council’s activities.
- **Key Characteristics**:_

**Proactive**: Demonstrate a proactive approach to problem-solving, identifying opportunities for improvement, and taking initiative to implement positive change within the community.

**Forward-Looking**: Embrace a forward-looking mindset, staying ahead of emerging trends, technologies, and best practices, especially in the areas of administrative efficiency, environmental sustainability and community development.

**Collaborative**: Exhibit excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups, including councillors, community members, and external stakeholders.

**Passionate**: Show passion for environmental projects and community development, advocating for sustainable practices and inspiring others to get involved.

**Organized**: Possess strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently, ensuring that deadlines are met.

**Adaptable**: Be adaptable and open-minded, willing to embrace new challenges and adjust strategies as the needs of the community evolve.
- **Experience**:_

It is not essential that you have previously worked as a Parish Clerk but you should have demonstrable experience of self-management, organisational skills, office administration and proactive task management from inception to completion.

**Job Types**: Part-time, Permanent

Pay: £17.11-£18.05 per hour

Expected hours: 24 per week

**Benefits**:

- Company pension

Schedule:

- Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

- Reading: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

**Education**:

- A-Level or equivalent (preferred)

**Experience**:

- Customer service: 1 year (preferred)
- Administrative experience: 1 year (preferred)

**Language**:

- English (required)

Licence/Certification:

- Driving Licence (preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Reading

Application deadline: 15/11/2023
Reference ID: A&NPC Parish Clerk
Expected start date: 01/01/2024