Investigator jobs in Harrogate

Salary: £40,444 - £45,529

Hours: 37 Hours

Contract: Permanent

Location: York/Northallerton Hybrid Working

The Organisation

The York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority was established as a new organisation in early 2024. It is a public sector employer with access to powers and funding to unlock transport and housing improvements, boost skills provision and help the economy transition to net zero for York and North Yorkshire. The Mayor also holds responsibilities in relation to Policing, Fire and Crime. Making the most of the combined strengths of the city region and rural powerhouse, the Combined Authority is a long-term commitment to shaping a brighter future for generations to come. By working for us you will play a part in making positive changes, unlocking investment, supporting business and communities to thrive and creating new and better opportunities for people that live and work here.

The Opportunity

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in supporting effective governance, transparency and democratic accountability within the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority. From 1 April 2027, a new scrutiny regime will come into effect under the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026, placing scrutiny at the centre of decision-making and oversight across the organisation.

Working closely with elected members, senior officers and partner organisations, you will support the Overview and Scrutiny Committee in delivering its statutory responsibilities. You will help shape and deliver an effective scrutiny work programme, undertake research and reviews, gather and analyse evidence, and contribute to the production of reports and recommendations. Operating within a rapidly evolving devolution landscape, you will provide professional support and advice on scrutiny legislation, guidance and best practice, helping to ensure decision-making is transparent, accountable and informed by robust evidence.

Key aspects of the role:

• Support the Combined Authority's Overview and Scrutiny Committee in carrying out its statutory functions.

• Work closely with elected members, officers and external partners to support effective scrutiny activity.

• Help develop and deliver an annual scrutiny work programme aligned to organisational priorities.

• Undertake research, policy reviews and evidence-gathering exercises on key issues.

• Analyse information and prepare clear, concise reports, briefings and recommendations.

• Support the production of annual reports and committee documentation.

• Interpret and apply legislation, guidance and best practice relating to scrutiny and governance.

• Coordinate meetings, evidence sessions and stakeholder engagement activities.

• Monitor emerging developments within the devolution agenda and local government sector.

• Promote transparency, accountability and continuous improvement across the Combined Authority.

• Contribute to effective decision-making through robust, evidence-based scrutiny.

• Build productive relationships with members, officers, partners and stakeholders.

What you will bring

• Strong research, analytical and report-writing skills, with the ability to present clear, evidence-based recommendations.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the confidence to work effectively with elected members, senior officers and partners.

• The ability to interpret complex information, legislation and guidance in a practical and meaningful way.

• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

• A collaborative approach, with the confidence to support constructive challenge while maintaining positive stakeholder relationships.

• An understanding of governance, scrutiny, democratic processes or the wider public sector environment would be advantageous.

• A commitment to transparency, accountability and continuous improvement in public services.

You will be joining a new and developing organisation at an exciting time. The benefits of working for us can be found here; Careers at York & North Yorkshire Combined Authority: Work for us

To find out more about our organisation please visit; https://yorknorthyorks-ca.gov.uk

Key Documents:

Job Description.docx

Contact and Apply

If you are interested in this fantastic opportunity or would like to discuss the role in more detail, please contact Paul Clark Paul.Clark@yorknorthyorks-ca.gov.uk for an informal conversation.

Applying is easy, simply register your details, tell us how you meet our criteria in the supporting evidence section, remove your personal details from your CV and upload.

Key Dates

Closing date: Tuesday 10 November

Interview date: w/c 16th November 2026

North Yorkshire Council (NYC) advertise vacancies on behalf of schools and external organisations (third parties) in North Yorkshire. NYC are not responsible for the recruitment/employment practices of third parties and accept no liability in relation to the vacancy and any subsequent recruitment/employment processes. Enquiries regarding the vacancy or practices should be made directly with the third party.