Introduction

General Principles of Delegation

Acting

Functions or powers delegated to holders of an office may be exercised by any person who has been appointed to act in the office, as a sole decision by that person.

Expectations

In exercising the delegated authority, the delegates are expected to:

1. act in accordance with their Financial Delegations and within budgetary constraints.
2. comply with Council policies and procedures relating to the exercise of the functions and powers.

For the avoidance of doubt, these expectations are not intended as legal conditions or limitations in the scope of the powers delegated.

Changes to team or office name

A specified office or class of office includes an office that carries the same, or substantially the same responsibility as the specified office and is intended to replace or substantially replace the specified office.

Other parties able to act

There may be situations where a delegation is made to several officers, or where decisions are made by officers in a different category of responsibility. For completeness, the delegation of authority to a specified officer does not prevent another properly authorised officer from exercising the same function, power or duty. For example, there may be two officers with the authority to exercise decision-making powers, or the Chief Executive may decide to refer a matter to the Council or a Committee for decision.

Operational policies are developed by and for staff and are not included in these delegations or these exceptions.

Non-discretionary duties

The Schedules list only those functions, powers and duties which involve discretionary decision-making. All staff have authority to perform non-discretionary duties (those not listed) on behalf of the Council, within the general scope of their role.