Summary
The Chief Officer – Legal and Governance is a pivotal role within a local authority, responsible for providing strategic leadership and direction across various functions, including Legal Services, Democratic Services, Elections, Governance, Business Support, and Equality and Diversity.
As the Council’s principal legal adviser and statutory Monitoring Officer, the postholder will ensure the highest standards of governance, legal compliance, and ethical conduct.
This role is crucial in supporting the Council’s strategic objectives by delivering top-tier legal and governance services, managing risks, and fostering effective democratic processes.
Responsibilities
- Serve as the Council’s statutory Monitoring Officer, ensuring adherence to all legal and constitutional mandates.
- Offer expert legal, governance, constitutional, and procedural advice to Members, Committees, senior officers, and external partners.
- Lead and manage the functions of Legal Services, Democratic Services, Elections, Governance, Business Support, and Equality and Diversity.
- Ensure the effective operation of the Council’s governance framework and promote best practices in corporate governance.
- Oversee the administration of Council meetings, committees, scrutiny functions, and democratic processes.
- Direct the delivery of local elections, referendums, and electoral registration functions.
- Provide advice on complex legal issues, including contracts, procurement, property, litigation, employment, and public law matters.
Requirements
- Significant senior management experience in legal, governance, democratic services, or local government settings.
- Experience in providing strategic legal advice to senior leadership teams and elected members.
- Proven ability to operate within a politically sensitive environment.
- Experience in leading and managing multidisciplinary teams and complex service areas.
- Strong track record of delivering governance, organizational change, and service improvement initiatives.
- Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, Fellow of CILEX, or equivalent recognized legal qualification.
- Current practicing certificate (where applicable).
- Evidence of continued professional development relevant to legal and governance services.
Additional Information
Working hours are 37 hours per week.
A basic DBS check is required.
The role requires 2-3 days on-site work.
Payments are made on a bi-weekly schedule.
The position is a 6-month contract with a rate of £950 per day umbrella.