Salary: £87,539 - £93,182
Hours per week: 37 hours
Interview date: Friday 20th March 2026
Overview
We are looking for an ambitious, forward‑thinking legal leader who wants to make a real difference for the people of Wiltshire.
As our Head of Legal Services and Deputy Monitoring Officer, you will bring strong technical expertise, a collaborative approach, and the confidence to work at pace in a large and complex organisation.
Responsibilities
Lead a sizeable and talented team, providing clear direction, developing others, and guiding colleagues through change with confidence and integrity.
Exercise political astuteness, possessing a strong understanding of local government governance, constitutional requirements, and the wider political environment, to ensure the service provides high‑quality, resilient, and legally sound advice across the organisation.
Embrace modernisation and transform how legal services operate, using data, digital tools, and emerging technologies such as AI to support evidence‑based decision making, raise the profile of the service, and ensure high‑quality, efficient, and future‑focused legal support.
Maintain expertise in one of the specialisms within the wider team (Commercial, Children’s, Adults, Litigation) and adapt quickly to new areas.
Qualifications and Experience
Proven experience leading legal teams in a local government setting, with a solid record of delivering complex legal work.
Demonstrated ability to use data and technology to enhance legal services.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to develop others.
Why us?
Wiltshire Council is a friendly, welcoming place to work, with a "One Council" ethos. That’s why we focus on getting the things that matter to our people right.
Explore more benefits here!
Please download and read the role description and person specification carefully before you apply, as well as Our Identity.
How To Apply
Please upload your CV and a Supporting Statement (maximum four A4 pages each) online.
Your CV should include contact details for two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be contacted if you reach the final stages and only with your permission.
In your Supporting Statement, tell us why you are interested in this role and share examples of your experience that show how you meet the person specification.
All applications must be submitted online, including the supporting statement.
For more details or an informal discussion with Sarah Fraser, Senior Executive Recruitment Consultant, or if you would like to speak to Perry Holmes, Director of Legal and Governance, please contact Sarah Fraser here or call 01225 713164.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The council is committed to creating an environment of positive working relationships where everyone feels engaged, supported and able to thrive. Our Identity is a framework which sets out how we are all expected to lead, work and act to deliver our services. We will not tolerate discrimination, bullying or harassment of any kind. Everyone is expected to promote a culture of inclusion, dignity, trust and respect which is underpinned by our vision and Our Identity framework.
We are firmly committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and to the principles of inclusion and diversity in both employment and the delivery of services. Read our statement of commitment to equality and inclusion.
Disability Confident Employer
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