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- Tasks: Lead legal services, ensuring strong governance and confident decision-making.
- Company: Somerset Council, a dynamic and ambitious local authority.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £100k, with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in shaping the future of Somerset through effective legal leadership.
- Qualifications: High-calibre legal professional with leadership skills and emotional intelligence.
- Other info: Join a young council committed to transformation and community improvement.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 100000 £ per year.
Somerset Council is a place with real momentum. There’s a distinctive sense of possibility here. We are a young council still shaping its future, ambitious for its communities and committed to building a fairer, greener, more resilient Somerset. While we face the same financial and demand pressures seen across local government, we also benefit from a developing culture of improvement, strong partnerships and the combined strength and expertise of our predecessor councils. It’s a promise to our residents that we are determined to keep.
As Head of Legal Services and Deputy Monitoring Officer, you will sit at the heart of the organisation, helping to enable good decisions, strong governance and confident leadership at a time of continued transformation. This is a senior leadership role with real influence. You’ll be leading the modernisation of our legal service, shaping culture and ways of working, and providing trusted, pragmatic advice to members and senior officers across a complex and evolving council.
We are looking for a high‑calibre legal professional who combines technical excellence with leadership credibility and emotional intelligence. You will be someone who can operate comfortably in a political environment, translate complex legal risk into clear and constructive advice, and bring a solutions‑focused mindset to everything you do. Just as important, you will be a people‑centred leader with an ability to inspire, develop and modernise a legal service that is proactive, collaborative and enabling, not risk‑averse or siloed.
This is a rare opportunity for a brilliant legal brain with that extra spark – the ability to blend governance, commercial awareness and leadership into a compelling narrative that supports transformation and helps Somerset Council move forward with confidence.
Closing date: 23:59 Sunday 1st February 2026.
Head of Legal Services & Deputy Monitoring Officer (Full Time) in England employer: Local Gov
Contact Detail:
Local Gov Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Legal Services & Deputy Monitoring Officer (Full Time) in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field and let them know you're on the hunt for a new role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the council's recent initiatives and challenges. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in how you can contribute to Somerset Council's transformation.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your vision for modernising the legal service and how you can inspire and lead a team. Confidence is key, so rehearse with a friend or in front of the mirror.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the team at Somerset Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Legal Services & Deputy Monitoring Officer (Full Time) in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Head of Legal Services role. Highlight your leadership experience and ability to navigate complex legal environments, as these are key for us.
Showcase Your People Skills: We want to see how you inspire and develop teams. Share examples of how you've led a legal service or team in the past, focusing on collaboration and proactive approaches rather than risk-averse attitudes.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is crucial. Use straightforward language to explain your legal expertise and how it translates into practical advice for governance and decision-making. We appreciate a well-structured narrative!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Somerset Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Local Gov
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest legal frameworks and governance practices relevant to local councils. Be prepared to discuss how your expertise can help Somerset Council navigate its unique challenges.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role is all about leadership, so think of examples where you've successfully led a team or project. Highlight your emotional intelligence and how you've inspired others to achieve common goals.
✨Understand the Political Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the political environment in Somerset. Be ready to discuss how you would approach legal advice in a politically sensitive context, ensuring that your recommendations are both practical and constructive.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to legal risks and governance. Practice articulating your thought process and solutions clearly, demonstrating your proactive and collaborative mindset.
