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- Tasks: Lead a legal team and oversee democratic services for a Kent Council.
- Company: Join a dynamic Council in Kent focused on community and legal excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model with a negotiable salary based on experience.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local governance while developing your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified solicitor or barrister with senior management experience.
- Other info: Full-time role with evening meetings; recent experience required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
We are currently in partnership with a Council based in Kent, who are recruiting for a Head of Law, Democratic Services and Monitoring Officer on an initial three-month temporary contract. This is a hybrid role based in Kent, on a full-time contract of 37 hours per week. This organisation is offering a negotiable rate dependent on experience.
The primary purpose of the role is to oversee a specialist legal team (1 Deputy Head of Legal & Deputy Monitoring Officer, 1 Lawyer & 1 Legal Officer) and the Democratic Services Team (1 Democratic Services Manager & 2 Officers). Duties will include (but are not limited to):
- Managing, developing and providing a comprehensive in-house legal service to the Council
- Identifying key legal issues as they emerge and ensure that the Council as a whole receives clear and positive legal advice
- Playing a leading role in driving forward corporate priorities and contributing to the strategic direction of the Council
- Advising on and making recommendations on major policy issues with legal implications
- Overseeing the delivery of the Democratic Services
- Reporting on matters that are likely to be illegal or amount to maladministration, as well as being responsible for the operation of constitution and conduct of Councillors
Experience required:
- Senior manager in high impact/strategic areas
- Solicitor, Barrister, FILEX, or similar legal qualification and authorised to conduct legal work
- Extensive knowledge of constitutional/administrative law
Working hours: Full time (37 hours a week) Monday to Friday, including evening meetings.
Please note that you require recent experience to apply for this role.
Head of Law, Democratic Services and Monitoring Officer employer: James Andrews Recruitment Solutions Ltd
Contact Detail:
James Andrews Recruitment Solutions Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Law, Democratic Services and Monitoring Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the legal and democratic services sectors. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with individuals who may have insights into the role or the organisation. This can help you gain valuable information and potentially a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific legal challenges and priorities facing local councils, particularly in Kent. Understanding the local context will allow you to speak knowledgeably about how you can contribute to the Council's strategic direction during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experience managing legal teams. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully led teams through complex legal issues and contributed to policy development in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the Council's recent initiatives and any legal controversies they may have faced. Being informed about their current projects will enable you to tailor your discussions and demonstrate your proactive approach to addressing their needs.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Law, Democratic Services and Monitoring Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Head of Law, Democratic Services and Monitoring Officer position. Familiarise yourself with the key duties such as managing legal teams and advising on policy issues.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience in legal management and strategic roles. Emphasise your qualifications, such as being a Solicitor or Barrister, and any specific knowledge of constitutional or administrative law that aligns with the job description.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your understanding of the Council's needs and how your background makes you an ideal candidate. Discuss your leadership experience and provide examples of how you've successfully managed legal teams or advised on significant policy matters.
Proofread and Submit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for clarity and professionalism. Ensure that your application is complete and adheres to any specific submission guidelines provided by the Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at James Andrews Recruitment Solutions Ltd
✨Showcase Your Legal Expertise
As a candidate for the Head of Law position, it's crucial to demonstrate your extensive knowledge of constitutional and administrative law. Be prepared to discuss specific legal issues you've navigated in previous roles and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
This role requires managing a specialist legal team and the Democratic Services Team. Share examples of your leadership style and how you've successfully led teams in high-impact or strategic areas. Discuss any initiatives you've implemented that improved team performance or service delivery.
✨Prepare for Policy Discussions
Since advising on major policy issues is a key part of the role, come ready to discuss your approach to policy development and implementation. Think about past experiences where you provided legal advice on significant policy matters and the outcomes of those situations.
✨Understand the Council's Strategic Direction
Familiarise yourself with the Council's current priorities and strategic direction. During the interview, express how your vision aligns with theirs and how you can contribute to driving these priorities forward. This shows your commitment to the organisation's goals.
