Parish Clerk Vacancy

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who wants to make a positive difference in the parish, support councillors in delivering high-quality local services, and work closely with residents, community groups, contractors and partner organisations.

Working alongside the Chair and councillors, the Clerk is responsible for the effective administration and management of the Parish Council, its assets and its resources. The Clerk acts as the Council’s Proper Officer and provides professional advice and guidance to support sound decision-making, policy development and the successful delivery of Council priorities.

The role includes preparing agendas, attending and supporting Council and committee meetings, producing minutes, implementing Council decisions and ensuring statutory duties are met. The successful candidate will need a flexible approach to work, including attendance at least one/two evening meetings each month and occasional weekend work when required.

From April 2027, the Clerk will also take on the role of Responsible Financial Officer. Strong financial and administrative experience is therefore essential, including the ability to prepare financial reports, support budget setting and monitoring, analyse financial information and maintain robust records. Experience of managing contractors, together with an understanding of HR and health and safety responsibilities, is also important.

Just as importantly, we are looking for someone who enjoys working with people, takes pride in local community life and can build positive relationships with residents, councillors, local organisations and volunteers. The role may include supporting or organising community events and helping the Council remain visible, approachable and responsive.

The successful candidate will be an excellent communicator and confident negotiator, with strong presentation skills and the ability to persuade, influence and bring people together. They will be proactive, trustworthy, approachable and willing to undertake all necessary training to support their continued development in the role.

Closing date:      20^th July 2026
Interviews for this post will be held: 3^rd and/or 4^th August

Salford Priors Parish Council is an ambitious local council with currently seven elected councillors. It provides a range of local services and is committed to supporting the wellbeing, identity and future of the parish.

The main purpose of the role

• To ensure that the instructions and decisions of the Council are carried out effectively, lawfully and in the best interests of the parish.
• To advise the Council and assist in the development of policies, providing clear information to support effective decision-making and constructive implementation.
• To be accountable for the effective management of the Council’s resources, reporting to the Council as required.
• To act as the Proper Officer of the Council and carry out all statutory functions, including issuing or serving all notifications required by law.

Key requirements of the role

Essential

• Experience of holding the role of Clerk and Proper Officer, or substantial relevant experience in a similar governance, administrative or public-facing role.
• Experience of dealing positively and professionally with members of the public.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain information clearly and tactfully.
• Ability to work calmly under pressure, meet deadlines and manage competing priorities.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage a varied workload accurately and efficiently.
• A methodical and reliable approach, ensuring regular individual and Council commitments are met.
• Ability to work independently while also contributing positively as part of a small team.

Desirable qualities

• CiLCA qualification, or a willingness to work towards it.
• Local knowledge of Salford Priors and the surrounding area, including an understanding of the needs, interests and priorities of a rural parish community.
• A genuine interest in community life and a desire to help residents feel informed, listened to and involved.
• A friendly, approachable and diplomatic manner, with the confidence to work with people from a wide range of backgrounds.
• Enthusiasm for supporting local projects, events and initiatives that bring people together and improve the parish.
• Confidence using digital tools, communication channels and office systems to support efficient administration and public engagement.
• A practical, positive and solutions-focused attitude, with the ability to use initiative and keep projects moving forward.
• Experience in updating and maintaining website content and managing social media platforms, including creating, scheduling, and publishing content to support engagement and communications objectives.

Terms:

• Part-time: 60 hours per month initially
• Salary: Pro-rata and based on experience and qualifications
• Location: Home-based with monthly evening meetings in Salford Priors
• In Addition: You will receive a home working allowance and a workplace pension scheme (NEST).

How to apply
For an application form, please download the attached form or contact clerk@salfordpriors.gov.uk or telephone 07740 581739.

Please note that CVs will not be accepted.

If you would like an informal discussion about the post, please contact the Clerk, Mrs Donna Bowles, on 07740 581739 between 6th & 9th July, office hours.