Decision details

The Policy and Communications Manager submitted a report recommending for approval a new employee structure which combined the current Policy and Communications Service with the Democratic Services section within the Directorate of Resources.

The Joint Cabinet and Employment and General Committee had approved phase 1 of the restructure on 1 November, 2016 which established a new Elections section within the Directorate of Resources. Recruitment to the posts of Electoral Services Manager and Elections Officer had been completed but recruitment to the permanent Elections Assistant post would be delayed pending phase 2 of the restructure as it offered potential suitable alternative employment for displaced employees.

The proposed changes in phase 2 of the restructure involved merging the Democratic Services section with the Policy and Communications Service. The new employee structure had been developed to support the aims and objectives of the Council’s Workforce Strategy and sought to deliver improved quality, efficiency, flexibility and resilience. The restructure also addressed succession planning concerns, provided improved collaboration opportunities across the service and a re-designed Member and Civic Support team to provide more efficient and effective support to members and the mayoralty.

The report outlined the consultations that had taken place with affected employees, trade unions and other key stakeholders; and provided details of the financial, human resources and people management implications. Alternative along with their reasons for rejection were also included in the report.

*RESOLVED –

1.   That Phase 2 of the restructure of the Policy and Communications service and the Democratic Services and Elections section, which proposes a revised structure for the Policy and Communications service and Democratic Services, be approved.

2.   That the Policy and Communications Manager in consultation with the HR Manager be authorised to make appointments to the revised structure.

REASON FOR DECISIONS

To deliver effective corporate services to meet the changing needs of the Council.