Tonbridge Town Council Clerk

Help Create the Future of Tonbridge

The establishment of Tonbridge Town Council in 2027 marks an exciting new chapter for one of Kent's most vibrant and historic communities. Following the elections, the Town Council's first meeting will be an important milestone in agreeing its governance arrangements and beginning its work.

Serving approximately 40,000 residents, the new Council will play an important role in representing local people, strengthening community identity and shaping the future of the town.

We are seeking an exceptional individual to become the first

Town Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer (RFO)

.

As the Town Council's senior officer and principal adviser, you will work closely with elected Members to establish the organisation, develop its governance and operating framework, and ensure strong financial stewardship from the outset. This is a rare opportunity to help build a new council from the ground up, shaping its culture, priorities and ways of working for years to come.

About You

Previous experience of serving as a Parish or Town Clerk is an essential requirement for this role. You will bring practical experience of parish or town council governance, advising elected Members and managing council operations, alongside the credibility, resilience and professional expertise to succeed in a fast-paced and evolving environment.

Able to operate strategically whilst remaining focused on delivery, you will quickly build trusted relationships with Members, partners and stakeholders, provide sound professional advice and establish strong organisational foundations from day one.

You will be able to demonstrate:

Previous experience as a Parish or Town Clerk, with practical knowledge of council governance, statutory responsibilities and meeting procedures (essential)

Strong leadership and organisational management skills

Financial management and budgetary expertise

Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities

Sound judgement, integrity and professionalism

The ability to work effectively with elected Members, partners and the wider community

A track record of delivering change, improvement and positive outcomes

A commitment to public service and continuous improvement

Why Join Us?

This is a career-defining opportunity to help create a modern, ambitious and community-focused council from its inception.

You will have the opportunity to shape a new organisation, influence local priorities, support democratic leadership and make a lasting contribution to the future of Tonbridge and the community it serves.

Employment Arrangements

This post is offered on an initial six-month fixed-term contract. The successful candidate will initially be employed by Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council while the new Tonbridge Town Council is being established. From 1 April 2027, when the new Town Council becomes a legal entity, it is anticipated that the remainder of the six-month fixed-term contract will transfer to Tonbridge Town Council.

Any decision regarding ongoing or permanent employment will be a matter for the newly elected Tonbridge Town Council.

Closing Date:

22 November 2026

Interviews

: week commencing 3 December 2026

For an informal discussion about this role, please contact Daune Ashdown - daune.ashdown@tmbc.gov.uk

The Council is committed to maximising equality of opportunity and intends to select the

best available person for every vacancy, regardless of any protected characteristic under

the Equalities Act, involvement in a trade union, or criminal convictions which are ‘spent’.