Corporate Support Officer - ARB15060

Service: Chief Executives Unit

Closing Date: Thursday 10th October 2024

A new and very exciting career opportunity has been opened as we seek a highly motivated, experienced and detail-oriented individual to play a key role as executive support officer working closely with the Chief Executive in a challenging and dynamic environment.

The Chief Executive has a growing national profile through appointed roles at the Society of Local Government Chief Executives Scotland (COSLA), published and ongoing work with the Improvement Service on the Local Government transformation agenda, and the unique and emerging proposition for Argyll and Bute Council to become a Single Authority Model.

Working with all members of the Executive Leadership Team, this is a key senior role that will bring much added value to the corporate centre of the organisation to support the Chief Executive in leading in a time of change.

Applicants will be required to familiarise themselves on a broad range of national and local policy subjects, and demonstrate analytical skills, effective communication skills, excellent people skills, be adaptable, and above all have sound judgement in evaluating information to develop recommendations for the personal consideration of the Chief Executive.

Previous experience of working at the corporate centre of an organisation or in local government is not essential and would be advantageous. Candidates from all backgrounds are encouraged if they can meet the essential job specification.

You can expect to work in a person centred and collegiate work environment that aspires to achieve the principles set out in the Chief Executive’s Connect for Success change programme that’s all about making it easier for us to deliver what’s needed of us.

As a wholly new post in the organisation, a tailored induction programme, and time will be provided to allow for the successful candidate to gain knowledge, grow networks and build relationships with a wide range of stakeholders including elected members, parliamentarians, strategic partners, community leaders and internal services.

The post;

• Is permanent.

• Includes line management responsibility currently for one full time member of staff.

• Is 35 hours per week.

• Is hybrid (i.e. can work from both the office and home) and whilst on a weekly basis, there will be periods when the successful candidate will be required to attend meetings at the Council Headquarters at Kilmory Castle, Lochgilphead, these arrangements are flexible and open to discussion.

• May require occasional travel across the whole of Argyll and Bute (and to a lesser extent outwith the area) including overnight stays to support the Chief Executive, particularly in direct engagements with communities, businesses and parliamentarians.

This position offers a rare chance for an individual to develop in depth knowledge of many aspects of the public sector in Scotland, observe up close national leadership in action and above all, to make a difference for our communities in Argyll and Bute.

If you are a proactive professional with an eye for detail, a passion for public service, and a knack for positive networking, do not hesitate to apply or contact to discuss further.

Interviews will take place on Thursday 24 2024.

Applicants should note that:-

• The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exclusions and Exceptions) (Scotland) Order 2013, as amended, applies to this post.

To apply for this vacancy, please click on the Apply Now button at the top of this page.

If you would like clarification on any information contained within the vacancy advert and/or the job description you will require to speak with the recruiting manager, who is:

• Stuart Green, Corporate Support Manager
• Telephone:
• Email: stuart.green@argyll-bute.gov.uk
• Reference: ARB15060/025362

Please note that you cannot apply for this vacancy by contacting the recruiting manager, applications must be made by clicking on the Apply Now button at the top of this page.

Please also note that we do not accept CVs, only applications completed and submitted via the Apply Now button on this page.

We encourage applications from people from all backgrounds and aim to have a workforce that represents the wider society that we serve. We pride ourselves on being an employer of choice. We champion diversity, inclusion and wellbeing and aim to create a workplace where everyone feels valued and a sense of belonging. To find out more about our commitment to this please visit Equality & Diversity Policy.