Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend.

Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovate environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work life balance. As a Unitary Authority we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.

We’re looking for an organised and proactive Business support officer to keep our Southend Safeguarding Partnership team on a part time (25 hours) and fixed term contract (12 months). You’ll support the SSP leadership teams by managing calendars, preparing agendas, collating papers, booking rooms, taking minutes, and tracking actions. You’ll also handle a busy shared inbox and provide accurate, timely responses.

Beyond meetings, you’ll take ownership of general administration using ICT systems for record keeping, filing, and correspondence. You’ll work independently, using your initiative to manage tasks and deadlines. You’ll also play a key role in case reviews, coordinating reports, compiling chronologies, and ensuring sensitive information is handled securely. Financial support is part of the role too, including processing invoices and managing Board budgets. Plus, you’ll assist with learning and development activities across the Partnership.

This is a fast-paced, varied role where attention to detail and adaptability are essential.

To be successful in this role, you will need to have:

• Qualifications: Good general education, including GCSE English (A–C or equivalent) is essential for this role and this must be evidenced with a certificate.
• Skills & Knowledge: Strong ICT skills (Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams), excellent organisation, and the ability to prioritise.
• Experience: Meeting administration and minute-taking, working in a busy office, managing deadlines, and communicating effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Personal Qualities: A self-starter who works independently, stays calm under pressure, and delivers accurate work across multiple workstreams.

When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training. A full list of benefits provided by Southend Council can be viewed on the "Why Work For Us?" tab.

If you are interested in this role, please click 'apply online' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV.

If you would like a copy the Job Description, please click here

Please note: Applications for this vacancy may close prior to the date advertised above so you are advised to apply as soon as you are able to.

The Council is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications, regardless of race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, age or religion or belief.