Interim Head of Legal (Major Projects & Governance)
North Yorkshire Council
Role
Who You Are
You are a qualified lawyer with a practicing certificate, deeply knowledgeable in Local Government law, particularly in areas such as regeneration projects, large-scale infrastructure development, construction, joint ventures, partnerships, and related litigation. With substantial post-qualification experience, you have demonstrated expertise in providing legal advice, support, and representation within a local government context. You are adept at managing teams, have substantial advocacy experience, and work effectively within a corporate and political environment.
What the Job Involves
The core focus of the role is to provide and ensure the provision of a comprehensive legal service to the Council, its Directorates, Committees, Members, and external clients. This includes legal advice and representation on politically sensitive and high-value capital projects, company law advice, and governance issues. You will manage and supervise the Legal Major Projects & Governance Team, ensure compliance with Law Society standards, contribute to income generation, and play a strategic role in the planning and development of legal services aligned with Council objectives. You'll be involved in operational management, resource management, quality control, customer care, and systems and information management.
Skills
- Clear, concise, and logical communication skills
- Strong interpersonal and presentation skills
- Ability to analyze diverse information and make informed decisions
- Creative problem-solving and innovation
- Effective under pressure with time management skills
- Persuasion, negotiation, and influencing skills
- Team leadership and people management
- Familiarity with ICT systems and research tools
- Political sensitivity and interaction with Council members
- Self-motivated, flexible, and decisive