Parish Clerk & Responsible Financial Officer
Hours: 3 per week
Location: Home-based (with attendance at Council meetings as required)
Salary: In accordance with the NALC Salary Scales (dependent upon qualifications and experience)
Closing Date: 23/3/2026
Overview
Fulmodeston with Barney Parish Council seeks to appoint a professional and initiative-taking individual to undertake the duties of Parish Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer (RFO). The Council comprises seven serving councillors with one vacancy: serving 250 residents in rural North Norfolk.
The Parish Clerk is the Proper Officer of the Council and is responsible for ensuring that the instructions of the Council are conducted in accordance with its statutory obligations. As RFO, the postholder will be responsible for the proper administration of the Council’s finances in accordance with current legislation, accounting procedures, and governance requirements.
This is a part-time position of 3 hours per week, worked primarily from home, with attendance required at scheduled Parish Council meetings, usually five per year, plus the Annual Parish meeting, which are all held within the Parish.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
• Act as the Council’s Proper Officer and ensure compliance with all statutory obligations.
• Prepare agendas, reports, and minutes for meetings of the Parish Council and ensure that decisions are implemented lawfully and efficiently.
• Provide professional advice and support to the Council on governance, policy, and procedural matters.
• Undertake correspondence on behalf of the Council and maintain effective liaison with residents, contractors, local authorities, and other organisations.
• Manage the Council’s finances, including preparation of budgets, maintenance of financial records, reconciliation of accounts, and preparation of year-end statements for audit.
• Administer the Council’s banking arrangements, payments, and receipts in accordance with Financial Regulations.
• Ensure that the Council’s policies, procedures, and records are kept up to date and that statutory transparency requirements are met.
• Maintain the Council’s website and ensure publication of agendas, minutes, and statutory documents.
• Ensuring that the council complies with GDPR.
Person Specification
Essential:
• Excellent administrative, organisational and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines.
• Competent IT skills, including the use of Microsoft Office applications and email.
• Knowledge of financial record keeping and basic accounting principles.
• Professional and diplomatic approach when dealing with Councillors, residents, and external bodies.
Desirable:
• Previous experience as a Parish Clerk, RFO or in a local government administrative role.
• Knowledge of local council law, powers, and procedures.
• Familiarity with local government financial and audit procedures.
While these characteristics are desirable, training will be facilitated where necessary, and applications are welcome on that basis.
Working Arrangements
The post is home-based and part-time, averaging 3 hours per week. A Council laptop will be provided if required; additional approved expenses will be reimbursed.
Attendance is required at Parish Council meetings held in the Parish.
Application Process
Applications should include a covering letter outlining suitability for the position and a current CV. Please submit via email to clerk@fulmodestonwithbarney-pc.gov.uk
For an informal discussion or to request further information, please contact the acting clerk Councillor Harris on the above email address.
Additional Information
The successful candidate will be required to demonstrate the right to work in the United Kingdom. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. References may be requested prior to confirmation of appointment.
