Director of Legal Services and Governance

Our client is a large local government organisation and looking for an experienced Head of Legal and Governance.This is initially a 3 month contract which may be extended for the right candidate

You will

• Advising on decisions that constitute a key decision and ensuring appropriate support is in place to enable effective scrutiny.
• Develop and maintain the authority's Constitution, governance frameworks, and decision-making protocols, ensuring these are widely available for consultation with members, employees and the public.
• Oversee corporate assurance with reference to code of conduct (including conflicts of interest), whistleblowing, information governance and transparency.
• As the Monitoring Officer, make recommendations on the appropriate action against any unlawful acts in line with relevant governance requirements.
• Act as the most senior legal adviser to the authority, the Mayor (when elected), Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service, including on constitutional matters and complex legal issues.
• Work closely with the Chief Executive, the Director of Finance (S73 Officer) and Executive Leadership Team to shape and deliver strategic policy and corporate plans.
• Provide legal and governance input into programmes, partnerships, and regional initiatives representing the authority in these and other external forums.

• Strategic and operational leadership of the Legal Services function, ensuring high-quality, timely legal advice across the authority.
• Develop and lead the Democratic Services and Scrutiny function, ensuring effective support for elected members, committees and advisory boards, and facilitating public engagement.
• Support and enable the leadership of the emerging HR and OD function, including relevant policies and frameworks, and appropriate execution of an effective HROD service.
• Strategic and operational leadership of the Information Governance and Data Protection function, ensuring statutory requirements are met in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulations, and acting as the Senior Information Risk Owner (SIRO)
• Ensure a register of Members' interests, gifts and hospitality is maintained
• Ensure the effective operation of the Councillors' Code of Conduct including member complaints and the Investigation and Disciplinary Committee process in relation to Protected Officers.
• Oversee legal risk management, litigation, and regulatory compliance.

• Lead, inspire and develop a high-performing team of professionals, providing clear objectives and direction.
• Lead by example as part of the Senior Leadership Team, embodying the highest standards of ethical practice and behaviour and demonstrating integrity at all times.
• Promote a culture of integrity, transparency, and continuous improvement through mentoring and coaching of staff.
• Manage budgets and resources effectively.
• Support the development of the team by creating a learning environment and a culture of collaboration.

PLEASE NOTE THIS ROLE IS INSIDE SCOPE OF IR35

HYBRID WORKING IS AVAILABLE