The Deputy Legal Services Manager (DLSM) (Contentious) will play a key role in meeting the vision of the Finance and Resources Directorate by ensuring effective management and supervision across the Legal Services Team. This role is critical in supporting Legal Services to provide a high‑quality legal service to its clients.
The DLSM will have direct line management responsibility for G12 and/or G13 lawyers and Trainee Solicitors.
As a key post leading the Contentious Team, the DLSM will support the Legal Services Manager and County Solicitor at operational and budget meetings, acting as an agent for change and a leader to shape and develop the relevant team to achieve the objectives of the Legal Services Unit.
In addition to providing high‑quality and timely legal advice and undertaking casework, the DLSM will support team members to act in compliance with law and accepted practice, and will assist with CPD opportunities.
Building and developing effective relationships with individuals and organisations who are key partners and stakeholders is essential to ensure their support and effective contribution to the legal process when requested.
This position is considered a Politically Restricted Post under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 and the Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009.
Main Responsibilities
* Work closely with the Monitoring Officer, County Solicitor and Legal Services Manager to facilitate effective governance within the County Council, ensuring decisions are made and actions are taken in a well‑governed yet timely manner and manage any relevant budget, ensuring financial rigor and maximisation of income.
* Participate in, and where required, lead briefings to enhance and develop the County Council’s decision‑making, policy development and policy review functions, such as a Business Brief.
* Assist the Legal Services Manager as a change agent, exploring technological and other approaches to support the delivery of better services.
* Deputise the Legal Services Manager when required and support the agenda of change and improved service delivery across Legal Services, ensuring the service is innovative, responsive, flexible and reactive to the evolving needs of the internal client base and Council priorities.
The Ideal Candidate
* Qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Legal Executive with a current practising certificate or equivalent and rights to conduct litigation.
* Substantial experience in a relevant legal environment.
* Demonstrable experience managing a team of legal professionals in a dynamic setting to achieve a high standard of service delivery.
* Ability to independently undertake complex legal casework to a high standard meeting Council requirements.
* Significant knowledge of in‑house legal practice to contribute to future plans and activities of the service.
* Effective oral and written communication, influencing and negotiating skills.
* People‑management, motivation and coaching skills.
* Ability to provide analysis or explanations for others and translate complex technical or procedural understanding into concise, appropriate language.
Staffordshire County Council is an equal opportunities organisation and a Disability Confident employer. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and communities.
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