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- Tasks: Lead legal services and provide strategic advice to shape governance and decision-making.
- Company: Somerset Council, a dynamic and ambitious local authority.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £100k, strong partnerships, and a commitment to community improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a transformative role at the heart of local governance.
- Qualifications: High-calibre legal professional with leadership skills and emotional intelligence.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive and collaborative environment.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 84000 £ per year.
Salary: Up to £100k (includes a market supplement)
Expires: 01/02/2026
Location: Somerset
Job Type: Full Time
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.
To arrange a confidential discussion, please contact our consultants at Penna:
Closing date: 23:59 Sunday 1st February 2026
To apply please click the Apply Now link below.
Head of Legal Services & Deputy Monitoring Officer (Full Time) in England employer: New Start
Contact Detail:
New Start 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 people in your field, especially those connected to Somerset Council. A friendly chat can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the council's recent projects and challenges. Show us you’re not just a legal whiz but also genuinely interested in making a difference in Somerset.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills can help modernise the legal service. We want to hear how you can inspire and lead a proactive team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Legal Services & Deputy Monitoring Officer (Full Time) in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Somerset: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Somerset Council shine through. We want to see how you connect with our mission of building a fairer, greener, and more resilient community. Share your vision and how you can contribute to our exciting journey!
Highlight Your Leadership Skills: As the Head of Legal Services, you'll be leading a team and shaping the culture of our legal service. Make sure to showcase your leadership experience and emotional intelligence in your application. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and modernise, so tell us how you've done this in the past!
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! When detailing your experience and qualifications, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points if necessary to make your key achievements stand out. Remember, we want to see your technical excellence without wading through too much fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at Somerset Council!
How to prepare for a job interview at New Start
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest legal frameworks and governance issues relevant to local councils. Be prepared to discuss how your expertise can help Somerset Council navigate its unique challenges.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Think of examples where you've successfully led a team or project, especially in a legal context. Highlight your ability to inspire and modernise a service, as this role is all about strong leadership and collaboration.
✨Understand the Political Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the political environment in Somerset. Be ready to discuss how you would translate complex legal risks into actionable advice for senior officers and council members, demonstrating your emotional intelligence.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Have a few insightful questions ready that show your interest in the council's vision and how you can contribute. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role aligns with your values and goals.
