Maxine Fifield

Background

About Maxine Fifield

I am an Officer of the Council and in the absence of the Town Clerk (Proper Officer) under a statutory duty to carry out all the functions, and to serve or issue all the notifications required by law of the local authority’s Proper Officer I assist, support and deputise for the Town Clerk in all aspects of the day to day management and operation of council services and resources and support the Town Clerk and the Responsible Financial Officer (RFO) in the careful application and administration of its finances, as per the Council’s Financial Regulations and Standing Orders. I undertake the activities and responsibility of the RFO in the absence of the RFO. I maintain awareness of any potential issues or opportunities that could affect or benefit the Town Council and advise the Town Clerk accordingly. I will implement changes where required. I assist and support the Town Clerk with any key strategic projects as required. I assist the Town Clerk with oversight and appropriate responsibility for the daily activities of the RFO regarding the financial operation of the Town Council. Assisting in the preparation of estimates and budgets and compliance with the Town Council’s Financial Regulations. I assist in the production of tender documents for contract work, invitation of tenders, acceptance and subsequent issue of contract documents and management of contract disputes. I have daily operational management and supervision of four members of staff. I am responsible for the implementation of Health & Safety Regulations the development and maintenance of all risk assessments. I promote the Town Council and its appointed mayor through newsletters, annual reports, social media, noticeboards, and the Town Council website in accordance with relevant policies. I identify any opportunities to improve the reputation of the Town Council Maintain and participate in effective public relations and internal and external communication at all times. I attend at Town Council, Committees, Sub-Committee, the Annual Town meetings and present reports and take minutes. I maintain constructive working relationships with key stakeholders who live and work in Newhaven. I was a Senior Finance Officer working in the Tax Team, I was responsible for many VAT return submissions and calculations, providing advice to internal colleagues and keeping up to date with regulation. I have achieved a high level of satisfactory guidance to colleagues and members of the public. I am AAT qualified and have a VAT Compliance Diploma, I keep myself up to date in the Tax environment.