Civic Engagement Manager

Civic Engagement Manager

Pay: £188.55 A Day PAYE/ £254.08 Per Day Umbrella

Directorate: Chief Executive's Directorate

Section: Mayor, Cabinet & Civic Support and Member Casework

Location: Hackney E8

Start: ASAP

Length: 6 Weeks

Working Pattern: Flexible, including out-of-hours, evening, and occasional weekend working

About the Role

Are you an organized, politically sensitive, and proactive individual with a passion for public service and community engagement? The London Borough of Hackney is seeking a Civic Engagement Manager to lead the planning and delivery of core civic events, manage the Speaker's Office, and champion local democracy across the borough.

In this highly visible role, you will act as the Council's overall lead Civic Officer. You will be responsible for delivering major corporate civic events, providing high-level support to the Speaker of Hackney, and aligning civic initiatives with the Mayor's priorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Civic Event Delivery: Plan and execute major annual civic events (e.g., Remembrance Sunday, Holocaust Memorial Day, Armed Forces Day, and the Annual Meeting civic reception), as well as flag raisings, community receptions, twinning, and Freedom of the Borough activities.
• Speaker's Office Management: Oversee all operations within the Speaker's Office, manage budgets, supervise temporary staff, oversee inbox enquiries, and manage cost-effective, secure transport arrangements.
• High-Level Advisory & Support: Serve as the lead advisor on civic ceremonial protocols for the Speaker, Mayor, and Chief Executive. Research and draft speeches, prepare briefing materials, and induct new Speakers into their roles.
• Promoting Local Democracy: Promote civic pride and community engagement by managing civic vault tours, Town Hall tours, and Local Democracy Week activities.
• Heritage & Protocol Oversight: Manage and secure Hackney's civic regalia (chains, badges, maces) and artifacts. Ensure macebearer arrangements and protocols for formal/national responses (e.g., royal deaths or civic passings) are in place.
• Fundraising: Support the Speaker in developing and delivering fundraising strategies for their designated charitable causes.

Key Requirements

Experience & Knowledge

• Proven track record in large- and small-scale event management.
• Experience in devising and executing fundraising strategies.
• Solid understanding of civic procedures, democratic protocols, and the role of the Speaker and Mayor.
• Strong political awareness and sensitivity to handle complex or controversial topics with discretion.
• Experience drafting written communications, including speeches, briefs, and official correspondence.

Skills & Personal Attributes

• Degree-level education or equivalent practical experience.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills with the ability to meet tight deadlines.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills across diverse audiences.
• Proficiency with IT systems to streamline office processes and service delivery.
• Self-motivated, flexible, and comfortable working both independently and collaboratively.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and cohesion.

Circumstances

Ability to work flexible hours to ensure coverage between 9:00 AM and 5:30 PM, alongside availability for out-of-hours, evening, and weekend work for civic events.

Why Join Hackney?

This role offers a unique opportunity to sit at the heart of local governance, represent the Council in key ceremonial matters, and connect directly with the vibrant communities of Hackney.

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