Locum Legal Services Team Leader – Planning & Environment, East Midlands Local Authority, 6-9 months initial contract
An established Local Authority is seeking an experienced Planning Lawyer / Team Leader to join its Legal Services Division on a locum basis for an initial 6–9 month assignment starting March 2026. This is an excellent opportunity to lead a small, friendly and dedicated Planning & Environment team supporting a wide-ranging regulatory and licensing function within a busy Council environment.
The Role
Contract Length: 6–9 Month Contract | Commencing March 2026
Working Pattern: Full-Time (5 Days per Week Preferred)
Working Arrangement: Hybrid preferred, with one day a week in office
Rate: Up to £65 per hour (Flexibility for right candidate)
Key Responsibilities
* Managing, supervising and supporting solicitors, legal executives, trainees and support staff
* Overseeing team performance and ensuring service delivery meets Council requirements
* Complex drafting work, particularly Section 106 Agreements
* Drafting and analysing Certificates of Lawful Use
* Advising on planning policy and strategic matters
* Attending and advising at Planning Committee
* Handling Planning Enforcement matters
* Providing clear, pragmatic legal advice to:
* Councillors
* Senior and departmental officers
* Colleagues within Legal Services
Ideal Candidate
You will:
* Be a qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Legal Executive with 5+ years’ PQE
* Have strong planning law experience within a local authority setting
* Demonstrate proven team leadership or supervisory experience
* Be confident advising committees and senior stakeholders
* Work independently with minimal supervision
* Deliver concise, clear written and oral advice
* Be comfortable using Microsoft Office, Teams, Zoom and case management systems
* Adhere to time recording practices
A collaborative approach and the ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced regulatory environment are essential.
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Planning Lawyer seeking a leadership-focused interim role within a supportive and well-established local authority legal team.
For a confidential discussion and further details, please contact Philippa Stoate or Ebby Vallance on 07441 916438 or email localgovlegal@venngroup.com
Ref No. J93744
Venn Group is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all candidates.
Locum Legal Services Team Leader – Planning & Environment, East Midlands Local Authority, 6-9 months initial contract