We are Hiring: Scrutiny Business Manager

Location: Surrey Council
Department: Democratic Services / Governance
Working Pattern: Hybrid
Rate: 40/hour
Contract Role

Role Purpose

To lead the Council’s scrutiny function, ensuring that scrutiny and committee activity is delivered effectively, transparently and in line with statutory requirements, the Council’s Constitution and best practice.

The postholder will provide strategic and politically astute leadership across Democratic Services, support elected Members and Select Committees, and act as the Council’s Designated Statutory Scrutiny Officer.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Council’s scrutiny function and designated Democratic Services team.
• Act as the Designated Statutory Scrutiny Officer.
• Provide independent policy, research and professional advice to Select Committees.
• Lead the planning, coordination and delivery of scrutiny programmes and committee business.
• Ensure meetings, reports and recommendations comply with statutory and constitutional requirements.
• Provide high-quality support and advice to Members, Cabinet, Chairs and senior officers.
• Manage Political Assistants and allocated Democratic Services staff.
• Prepare and oversee high-level reports, recommendations and scrutiny findings.
• Manage statutory consultations, monitoring and reporting requirements.
• Identify emerging political, operational and governance issues and provide appropriate advice.
• Lead service improvement, change initiatives and new ways of working.
• Manage allocated budgets, resources and staff to deliver agreed objectives.
• Build effective relationships with Members, senior officers, partners and external stakeholders.
• Represent Democratic Services at senior internal and external forums.