Performance and Governance Manager

Job Introduction

An exciting opportunity has arisen to lead Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s Corporate Governance team at a time of significant change in information management and local government. With the emergence of AI technology and the implications on privacy, the introduction of the new Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 and its impact on UK-GDPR, and Local Government Reorganisation, the team will be instrumental in supporting the Council in navigating these developments over the coming months and years.

About the Role

You will lead a high performing team that plays a key role in the Council’s corporate governance arrangements, helping the Council to protect the personal data it holds and making sure it meets its legal obligations. The team supports the Council in meeting the requirements of the Data Protection Act 2018, UK GDPR and other legislation, protecting personal data and ensuring that information rights are upheld. The team works closely together, providing support, advice and guidance to the Council through working with services across the organisation.

You will champion good information governance, data protection and information rights at the Council, leading the Corporate Governance team and working closely with colleagues from services across the organisation. You will actively promote a culture of good governance and best practices, identifying and promoting opportunities for continuous improvement while ensuring the Council has appropriate arrangements in place to meet legislative requirements.

You will provide strategic advice on issues relating to information governance legislation, regulations, policy and practice, acting as a subject matter expert. You will work closely with senior officers, including the Data Protection Officer, Senior Information Risk Officer, Heads of Service, and their services to protect, manage and share data safely to deliver the Council’s priorities.

About You

We are looking for someone who:

• Is an effective negotiator and able to advocate for information governance across the Council
• Has the ability to work collaboratively and in partnership to influence service delivery
• Can assess complex service performance data and make recommendations for improvement
• Quickly adapts to and champions new working practices and technology
• Has excellent communication skills to effectively engage with a range of audiences 
• Can lead and deliver practical improvements through projects, programmes and initiatives

Due to the nature of the work, a high level of confidentiality is required.

What we offer:

• Financial: An attractive basic salary within a clear pay structure 
• Holiday Entitlement: 26 days annual leave (increasing to 29 days after 5 years continuous Local Government service) plus three additional days in December and bank holidays.
• Employee Assistance Programme: The Council has partnered with Health Assured to provide staff with access to EAP (Employee Assistance Programme) to assist in balancing everyday life with the requirement of work and home.
• Free staff parking in town centre.
• Pensions: Membership of the Local Government (CARE – Career Average (Revalued Earnings) Pension Scheme – Employer contribution of 19.7%.
• Hybrid: The Council operates a hybrid working model with minimum 2 days working in the office.
• Personal Development: Invaluable training opportunities for continuing professional development. We will support your growth within the role through training, coaching and mentoring — because we believe in developing our people.
• Take a look here at all the additional benefits that we offer.

Equal Opportunities

Tunbridge Wells – Working for Equality. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Safeguarding

The Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and expects all employee and volunteers to share this commitment.

Ready to apply?

If you would like to talk through the role, please contact Andy Sturtivant, Head of Governance and Democratic Services at andy.sturtivant@tunbridgewells.gov.uk

Advert closing date: 22 October 2025

Interview date: week commencing 27 October 2025