Clerk and Financial Officer; RFO

Wombourne Parish Council,

This is a rare opportunity to lead a large, ambitious and forward-thinking parish council at a pivotal moment in local government.

Wombourne Parish Council serves a vibrant and growing community of approximately 15,000 residents in South Staffordshire. The council delivers a wide range of services and facilities including the Civic Centre, public conveniences, community events, open spaces, recreational facilities, football pitches, village assets and community engagement initiatives.

The council has grown significantly over recent years, both operationally and strategically and now employs a diverse staff team of 15 individuals delivering increasingly complex local services.

As the organisation continues to evolve, the council is seeking a highly capable and forward-thinking professional who can build upon the work undertaken by the current Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer, while leading the council confidently into its next phase of development and change.

The successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and political neutrality expected of a senior local government officer, while maintaining positive and effective working relationships with councillors, employees, residents and external stakeholders.

This role presents a unique opportunity to:

• Support the council through the local elections scheduled for May 2027
• Lead the council through a period of significant change and transformation as we prepare proactively for anticipated local government reform and devolution proposals
• Shape the future strategic direction of a growing and increasingly influential local authority
• Strengthen governance, operational resilience and community engagement
• Work closely with councillors, employees, residents and partner organisations to deliver high quality local services

The successful candidate will be a highly motivated and professional leader with strong governance, financial management and organisational skills. They will understand the importance of balancing strategic leadership with day‑to‑day operational management and community engagement.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced clerk, deputy clerk or senior local government professional seeking to make a meaningful impact within a dynamic and ambitious council.

The council would ideally seek an appointment which allows for an appropriate handover period with the current Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer, in order to support a smooth and effective transition. The council would therefore ideally like the successful candidate to commence the role no later than the middle of August 2026 (notice period allowing).

Due to the nature and seniority of the role, this position is considered politically restricted in accordance with the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.

Role

Title:

Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer (RFO)

Location: Wombourne Civic Centre, Gravel Hill, Wombourne, Staffordshire, WV5 9HA

Responsible To: Full Council

Responsible For: All council employees and operational services

Main Purpose of the Role: The Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer is the council’s most senior employee and Proper Officer.

The postholder is responsible for ensuring that the council conducts its business lawfully, effectively and transparently while delivering high quality services to the community.

The Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer will provide strategic leadership, governance advice and operational management across all council functions and services. As part of a proactive and operationally involved parish council, the role also requires direct day‑to‑day involvement in democratic administration, financial processing, meeting management and operational oversight.

The role includes responsibility for democratic services, policy implementation, financial management, staff leadership, risk management, asset oversight, strategic planning, community engagement and organisational development.

The postholder will work closely with councillors to support effective decision‑making and ensure the council is appropriately prepared for future local…