Step into a role at the centre of local democracy, where your legal and governance expertise will help ensure the smooth and compliant delivery of elections across Wiltshire. As a senior member of the Electoral Services team, you will deputise for the Electoral Services Lead, providing leadership, continuity, and expert guidance to colleagues, senior officers, and the Returning Officer/Electoral Registration Officer. This is a unique opportunity to operate at the heart of local democracy, ensuring elections and referendums are delivered lawfully, transparently, and to the highest professional standards.
The Electoral Services plays a vital role in supporting democracy in Wiltshire, delivering the smooth and successful running of all elections and referendums. The team expertly manages every stage of the process, ensuring each event is conducted with integrity, accuracy, and in full compliance with current legislation, guidance, and best practice.
You will play a key role in managing all aspects of electoral services, from overseeing the Register of Electors and absent voting processes to acting as Deputy Returning Officer for by-elections and referendums. With a strong focus on compliance, you will interpret and implement electoral legislation, advise Members and stakeholders, and contribute to reports and decision-making. Your ability to analyse complex information, monitor performance, and recommend service improvements will help drive efficiency and innovation across the function.
Alongside your technical expertise, you will lead and develop a dedicated team, setting clear standards and fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Building strong relationships across the Council and with external stakeholders, you’ll help shape a forward-looking, resilient electoral service that underpins public confidence in local governance.
Why us?
Wiltshire Council is a friendly, welcoming place to work, with a 'One Council' ethos. Find out more about Our Identity, staff networks, and employee benefits here.
Our hybrid working model means office staff are on site for at least half their hours, community-based staff carry out at least half their admin time in a workplace, and customer‑facing roles work entirely from their service location.
We are committed to creating a workplace where positive relationships thrive and everyone feels engaged, supported and able to do their best. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying or harassment. Everyone is expected to promote a culture of inclusion, dignity, trust and respect, guided by our vision and Our Identity.
Our hybrid working model means office staff are on site for at least half their hours, community-based staff carry out at least half their admin time in a workplace, and customer facing roles work entirely from their service location.
Contact details
Ceri Tocock, Head of Customers and Communication, at ceri.tocock@wiltshire.gov.uk
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Application criteria
Please download and read the Role Description and Person Specification carefully before you apply.
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Statement of commitment to equality and inclusion
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