Leader's Office Co-ordinator

• Flexible hybrid working in line with our Dynamic Working Strategy.
• 26 hours per week. Some evening and weekend working may be required
• 30 days annual leave(pro-rata for part time hours).
• Permanent role.
• This post may be politically restricted under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.

We are seeking a highly motivated and politically astute individual to join Somerset Council as a Leader’s Office Co-Ordinator. This pivotal role provides strategic and operational support to the Leader of Somerset Council and deputises for the Head of the Chief Executive’s Office.

You will be at the heart of the Council’s leadership, helping to shape policy, manage communications, and coordinate key projects and partnerships. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the delivery of Somerset’s strategic priorities and make a real difference to our communities.

Your responsibilities will span three key areas:

Support to the Leader of Somerset Council

• Provide high-level advice and assistance to the Leader.
• Manage correspondence, MP enquiries, and casework.
• Prepare agendas, briefings, and reports for meetings with MPs and stakeholders.
• Ensure the Leader is fully briefed and supported across all engagements.
• Conduct research and prepare speeches, presentations, and policy briefings.
• Coordinate public engagements and represent the Leader’s office as required.

Support to the Head of Chief Executive’s Office

• Assist with strategic project delivery and coordination.
• Lead and support Executive Support Officers across directorates.
• Facilitate communication between the Chief Executive’s and Leader’s Offices.
• Contribute to research, reports, and presentations.

Regional and National Partnership Engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with national and regional partners including MPs, NHS bodies, government departments, and local networks.
• Represent Somerset Council in strategic discussions on health, housing, infrastructure, education, and community wellbeing.

At Somerset Council, we’re committed to delivering excellence for our residents. You’ll be part of a forward-thinking team that values innovation, inclusivity, and continuous improvement.

We champion equality, promote wellbeing, and support professional development.

We offer ongoing support, training and guidance to help you be the best you can be.

Essential:

• Experience in strategic support roles within complex organisations.
• Strong understanding of local government and political structures.
• Proven ability to support senior executives or political leaders.
• Excellent organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• High political awareness and ability to manage sensitive information.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of project management and public policy.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and partnership working.
• Familiarity with Somerset Council’s strategic goals.
• Background in research and policy development.

Qualifications

• Degree in Public Administration, Business Management, or a related field.
• Training in strategic planning, organisational development, or project management (desirable).

We are proud to offer an environment that is supportive and rewarding, working as part of a team who are passionate about the work they do to improve the lives of people in Somerset.

We offer great training and development opportunities, with supportive management. As well as this, we have some fantastic employee benefits available:

• We promote a healthy work-life balance and offer flexible working arrangements wherever possible, including working from home.
• Generous annual leave allowance, with the opportunity to purchase additional leave.
• Staff discounts in gyms.
• Employee Assistance for the times you may need some support and a variety of employee wellbeing services.
• Auto enrolment onto our generous Pension Scheme and optional pension enhancement through our Additional Voluntary Contribution scheme.
• A Flexible Benefits Scheme via salary sacrifice to obtain a cycle for work and health screenings.
• My Staff Shop offering discounts in shops, online shopping, restaurants, cinema tickets, insurance benefits and more.

The salary for this Grade 9 role is £41,771 to £46,142 per annum (£29,352 to £32,424 for 26 hours per week).

For an informal chat about the role, you can contact Elizabeth Dawson, Head of Chief Executive's Office - elizabeth.dawson@somerset.gov.uk.

When completing your application/CV please provide your full employment history and ensure that any gaps in employment are explained. Please start with your current or most recent employment.

If you have all the information you need, just hit the apply button - we can’t wait to hear from you.