Director of Legal and Governance & Monitoring Officer
Apply for the Director of Legal and Governance & Monitoring Officer role at Southampton City Council.
The Hampshire and the Solent (HatS) Combined County Authority is being created to unlock the full potential of our region, bringing together the Mayor, local councils, business, education and communities to deliver inclusive, sustainable growth.
As part of thevolution Priority Programme, the authority will have new powers and investment to transform transport, housing, skills, net zero and economic growth—a real opportunity to connect opportunity with need, strengthen our economy and make Hampshire and the Solent an outstanding place to live, work, study and invest.
Key Responsibilities
* Fulfil statutory duties as Monitoring Officer under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989, ensuring legal and ethical compliance.
* Lead the Legal Services team, overseeing litigation, contracts, procurement, and regulatory matters.
* Shape and maintain governance frameworks, including the Constitution and decision‑making protocols.
* Provide strategic legal advice on complex issues and constitutional matters.
* Lead the democratic services function and corporate assurance activities.
* Represent the authority in high‑level legal forums and external partnerships.
Qualifications & Experience
* Extensive post‑qualification experience as a senior legal professional in local government or similar.
* In‑depth knowledge of public law, governance, and statutory responsibilities.
* Proven leadership in managing complex legal issues and delivering strategic change.
* Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder engagement skills.
* A qualified solicitor or barrister entitled to practise in England and Wales.
This role could be a Fixed Term Contract or Secondment. If you are interested in a Secondment please discuss this with your line manager.
This role will operate on a hybrid work pattern: approximately 3 days per week in an office location and 2 days per week at home.
This is a politically restricted post under Part 1 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.
Why Join Us?
Rare opportunity to shape the legal and governance landscape of a forward‑thinking regional authority.
Contact Details for Informal Discussion
For further information and details regarding the role, please contact Charlotte Burton on the following line:
Tel: 023 8083 4033
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