Overview
Luton Council is seeking an exceptional leader to take on the pivotal role of Director of Governance. This is a unique opportunity to join the Council’s senior leadership team and help shape the future of governance, legal services, and democratic engagement in Luton. As the Council’s Monitoring Officer, you will hold one of the three statutory officer positions, working alongside the Chief Executive and Section 151 Officer to ensure the highest standards of legality, integrity, and transparency. You will lead the Council’s legal and democratic services, providing strategic direction and expert advice to elected members and senior officers. Your work will be instrumental in safeguarding the Council’s reputation, ensuring compliance with statutory obligations, and promoting ethical conduct across the organisation.
This role demands a visionary leader with substantial experience at a senior level in local government. You will be adept at interpreting complex legal frameworks, guiding constitutional processes, and managing high-performing teams. Your ability to influence, negotiate, and communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders will be key to your success.
Luton is a borough with bold ambitions. Our vision for 2040 is to create a town where no one lives in poverty and everyone can thrive. As Director of Governance, you will play a central role in realising this vision, driving innovation, performance, and continuous improvement across your portfolio.
If you are ready to lead with integrity, inspire change, and make a lasting impact, we invite you to apply for this critical role.
For further information, please click the link to download a candidate briefing pack: Candidate Briefing Pack. For a confidential conversation about this role, please contact our retained consultants at Penna:
Carol Coyle – 07500 887849 or email: carol.coyle@penna.com
Amin Aziz – 07709 514141 or email: amin.aziz@penna.com
Responsibilities
* Oversee the Council’s Constitution, advising on standards and conduct, and managing investigations into potential maladministration.
* Ensure robust governance arrangements and lead the delivery of fair and compliant elections.
* Support civic and ceremonial functions and act as a strategic advisor on legal and ethical matters.
* Lead the Council’s legal and democratic services, providing strategic direction and expert advice to elected members and senior officers.
* Collaborate with the Chief Executive and Section 151 Officer to uphold legality, integrity, and transparency across the organisation.
Qualifications
* Substantial experience at a senior level in local government.
* Adept at interpreting complex legal frameworks and guiding constitutional processes.
* Proven ability to manage high-performing teams and influence, negotiate, and communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
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