Parish Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer

• Debenham Parish Council

• Address: Debenham, Suffolk IP14 6QN

• Salary: Competitive

• Hours: 30 hours per week

• Contract: Permanent

• Reference: 0904

Debenham Parish Council invites applications for the position of Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer to the council.

The role would suit a highly motivated and enthusiastic professional with good communication, language and numerical skills – knowledge of the Rialtas accounting software an advantage but training available. The role is home based, 30 hours per week to include attendance at 11 parish council meetings per year plus occasional committee meetings. Parish Council meetings are held on the third Monday evening of the month excluding August.

Applicants should possess a good standard of education, ideally holding the Certificate in Local Council Administration (CiLCA) or be willing to undertake study towards this qualification. The ability to work both independently and as part of a team is essential. Experience in local government or a related field is desirable. Excellent IT skills, ability to meet deadlines and a willingness to embrace change are required.

Key responsibilities include:

• advising the council on policy matters

• acting as data protection officer

• assisting in the development of overall policies

• ensuring the implementation of council decisions 

• preparing monthly agendas and preparation of minutes from meetings

• managing contracts

• managing the day-to-day business of the council and queries from parishioners

• managing the Rialtas accounting system

• assisting with the annual budget preparation.

The council may consider applications for separate Parish Clerk and RFO roles, working hours respectively 20/25 and 5 per week.

The council offers a competitive salary based on the Local Government Services Pay Agreement 26/27(LC2) subject to experience and qualifications, membership of the Nest Pension Scheme, holiday plus bank holidays.

To find out more

Please visit our website for further information about the council.

The full job description and person specification are available on request. Please email: [email protected].

How to apply

Applications are to be made via email with covering letter and current CV to: [email protected].

Closing date: 18 September 2026