About the role Executive Support Officer Working within the Corporate Core this will be a key role in supporting the Leader of the Council and the Cabinet working across the organisation and partners locally, regionally and nationally. The role will provide strategic advice to the Leader and Cabinet on current issues and other matters impacting on Council policies. It will also support the Leader in his lead role in the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA). Key responsibilities Working with the Leader and Cabinet in support of the development of policies and strategies. Deliver accurate and timely advice to the Leader on current issues including advice on local and national policy proposals affecting the people of Bury and the social and economic wellbeing of the Borough, ensuring there are links with Cabinet Member portfolios and members of the Executive Team. To research, prepare briefing papers, develop policy proposals and prepare responses on a wide range of issues for the Leader of the Council and the Cabinet. This to include reading and analysing agenda papers, minutes and reports to identify issues of interest and to prepare briefings for the Leader. To co-ordinate responses to Council questions. To work in conjunction with corporate policy colleagues to drive and contribute to corporate strategy and to ensure this planning activity is aligned to member discussions and decision making. Take responsibility for effective liaison between the Leader and the Chief Executive, as well as other members of the Cabinet and the Executive Team, to ensure smooth operation of policy development and Executive responsibility. Working closely with the Communications Team to convey the priorities of the Council so that these are understood both internally and externally. To attend Cabinet, Council, Committee and other meetings to identify areas of research and to assist the Leader when attending these meetings. To support the Leader in his lead role on the GMCA, supporting the specific portfolio of responsibilities. Key Requirements To succeed in this role you will need as a minimum: Experience of working within a political environment providing balanced advice, inspiring trust and confidence on strategic and operational matters. Experience of working with, advising and influencing councillors, officers and other stakeholders, developing positive working relationships that generate confidence, respect, credibility and trust. Excellent organisational and planning skills with proven ability to manage projects and programmes, whilst meeting quality and time considerations. A proven ability to undertake policy research, development and implementation within a local authority or similar setting. The ability to take issues from a local, regional and national level and translating those into guidance, policy and projects that will achieve the right outcomes for Bury. Proven analytical and problem solving capabilities. About Bury The Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare or children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. Appointment may be subject to a satisfactory disclosure at the appropriate level under the Disclosure and Barring Service. In line with safer recruitment, please ensure that your application/CV covers your full employment history and there is a reason noted for any gaps in employment. Successful candidates will be asked to provide relevant references for the past ten years and character references will not be accepted. As a Corporate Parent, ensure that the work and services you deliver considers our care experienced young people, promotes their life chances empowers them to influence the policies, services, and decisions that affect them, champions their rights, and ensure they grow up in the best possible way Benefits of working for Bury Council To hear about the benefits for working with Bury Council, please visit A good employer | greater jobs We support employees to work with agility, where appropriate for the post and service requirements. We are committed to Bury being an equal society that recognises values and embraces all people, regardless of any difference, for the skills, abilities and experiences they bring into the workforce and the wider community. Therefore we guarantee an interview for disabled people, looked after children/ care leavers, armed forces personnel (including reservists and veterans) and carers of adults or disabled children if they meet the essential criteria. Next steps Please note this is a politically restricted post. For an informal chat about the role, please email julie.gallagherbury.gov.uk