The Role
The Interim Head of Legal will provide and oversee a comprehensive legal service to the Council and external clients, with a focus on high‑profile, politically sensitive, and high‑value capital projects (construction and regeneration). It will also deliver company law advice relating to Council‑owned companies and corporate delivery models, local authority governance including harbour authority responsibilities, and combined authority governance and projects.
You will manage and supervise the Corporate Services Team, ensuring delivery of efficient and effective legal services. Support will be provided by the Assistant Director for Legal Services in specialist areas.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop and deliver legal services in line with the Service Plan.
* Prepare and present cases in courts, tribunals, and inquiries.
* Instruct and attend with counsel.
* Interview witnesses and prepare statements of evidence.
* Provide legal advice at meetings, including officer, member, and external client meetings.
* Join project teams for significant Council initiatives.
* Draft and advise on Council, Committee, and Executive reports.
* Deliver training sessions as required.
* Monitor legislation and case law developments, advising accordingly.
* Strong knowledge of Local Government law.
* Expertise in regeneration projects, infrastructure development, construction, joint ventures, partnerships, and commercial transactions.
* Extensive post‑qualification experience in local government legal services.
* Proven experience managing a team.
* Substantial advocacy experience in courts, tribunals, or inquiries.
* Experience working in corporate and political contexts.
* Committee attendance and advisory experience.
Qualifications
* Educated to degree level or equivalent.
* Qualified solicitor or barrister (practising certificate required).
About the Client
North Yorkshire Council is a leading local authority delivering a wide range of services across the county. The Legal Service, part of Legal and Democratic Services within the Chief Executive's Group, plays a vital role in supporting the Council's Directorates, Executive, Committees, Members, and external clients. The service is committed to excellence, compliance with Law Society Professional Standards, and maintaining Lexcel accreditation.
Position Details
Interim Head of Legal (Hybrid) needed in Northallerton, £30.19ph PAYE - Reference: RQ1660024. Length: 3 to 6 months. Hours: 08:30 - 5pm Mon - Thu, 08:30‑4:30 Fri. Full‑time working is preferred; part‑time working will be considered. Location: Hybrid/Northallerton.
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