At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic legal team, managing complex legal matters across various public sector functions.
- Company: Join one of the largest in-house local authority legal teams in the UK.
- Benefits: Gain invaluable experience in a high-profile role with strategic leadership opportunities.
- Other info: Engage with senior officers and external partners in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public service while enhancing your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive with senior-level experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Your new company
You will be joining one of the largest in-house local authority legal teams in the UK, providing high-quality legal services across multiple local authorities and combined authorities, supporting a wide range of public sector functions. This opportunity sits within a significant and wide-ranging legal division covering key service areas across people, place and regulatory matters. The division brings together five specialist teams: Adults Social Care and Education, Employment and General Law, Housing, Litigation, and Regulatory & Licensing.
Your new role
As Interim Head of Legal, you will provide strategic leadership across the group, reporting directly to the Assistant Director. You will also deputise as required at a senior level, representing Legal Services internally and externally. You will lead and oversee a broad portfolio of complex legal work, ensuring high-quality delivery across multiple disciplines. The role requires strong corporate leadership, effective stakeholder management, and the ability to manage competing priorities and projects simultaneously. This is a highly visible position where you will engage with senior officers, elected members, and external partners, often dealing with sensitive and high-profile matters.
What you'll need to succeed
- Proven experience operating at a senior level within a local authority legal environment
- Strong collaborative and corporate leadership skills
- Significant experience handling complex legal matters across one or more areas of people, place and regulation
- Qualification as a Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive with relevant litigation rights
In addition, you will bring:
- High levels of political awareness and the ability to influence at senior levels
- Excellent communication skills and a solution-focused, innovative approach
- Experience managing multiple projects to tight deadlines and budgets while maintaining exceptional quality standards
- A track record of building and maintaining effective client relationships, often involving sensitive issues
- Experience leading multidisciplinary legal teams within a large and complex organisation
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV.
Interim Head of Legal (4-6 Months) in Manchester employer: Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited
Joining one of the largest in-house local authority legal teams in the UK offers a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful work that directly impacts public services. With a strong emphasis on professional development, collaborative work culture, and the chance to lead complex legal matters, this role provides an enriching environment for growth and innovation. The supportive atmosphere fosters strong relationships with senior officers and elected members, making it an excellent place for those looking to make a significant difference in the community.
Contact Details:
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited Recruitment Team
