Jobs
Head of Legal – (Commercial & Projects)
Salary
£71,513- £80,593 per annum
Expires
11/11/2026
Company
North Yorkshire Council
Location
Northallerton, North Yorkshire
Job Type
Full Time
Help shape the future of commercial legal services.
We are seeking a senior solicitor to join as the Head of Legal for Commercial and Projects work.
This role will be responsible for a number of complex and corporately significant development projects and leading a team within Legal Services. The postholder will also be a Director of First North Law and be responsible for delivering pragmatic and cost-effective solutions to address our growing customers’ legal requirements.
We are looking for a leader who can combine technical excellence with a proactive, commercial mindset. Whether advising on complex contracts, procurement and significant capital and regeneration projects, you will play a key role in delivering outstanding legal services to both the Council and a growing external client base.
About the Service
This is an exciting time to join North Yorkshire Council’s Contracts and Commercial Team. We have a strong and experienced team, with ambitious plans to grow our external legal services offer through First North Law LLP, our wholly owned, SRA-regulated legal services company.
Across the legal service we have over 60 lawyers supported by a dedicated practice manager and paralegal team. The legal service is part of Legal and Democratic Services within the Chief Executive’s Group. The Council provides a range of services across North Yorkshire, and the legal team provide a comprehensive and efficient legal service to officers, the Executive, full Council, its Committees and Members, and external clients.
The Council has just completed the three-year anniversary of the local government reorganisation, which brought together eight councils into the new North Yorkshire Council. This unification creates new opportunities to strengthen local delivery, improve system working and secure greater investment through devolution.
The York and North Yorkshire devolution deal could unlock around £2.4bn of investment over 30 years, focused on economic prosperity and long-term opportunity. This provides a powerful platform for the new Head of Lead to build their career in an era of growth.
You will benefit from working alongside experienced colleagues in a supportive environment that encourages innovation, collaboration and professional development. If you are ambitious, client-focused and looking for an opportunity to realise your full potential within a successful and growing commercial practice, we would love to hear from you. To be successful, you will be experienced in the areas of work detailed in the job specifications and be able to demonstrate the skills and competencies listed therein.
Why Join Us?
At North Yorkshire Council, we value our people and are committed to supporting your development and career progression.
In addition to your salary, you’ll also benefit from:
- generous holiday allowance.
- membership of the Local Government contributory pension scheme.
- childcare vouchers.
- new technology scheme, discounts at many leisure activities, restaurants, shops, and other establishments to name a few.
For full details please see Total Rewards Brochure
Contact
For an informal discussion and more information in relation to the role, please contact Jennifer Norton, Assistant Director Legal jennifer.norton@northyorks.gov.uk
Key Dates:
Closing Date: 11 th November 2026
Interview Date: 20 th November 2026
Company: North Yorkshire Council
Salary: £71,513- £80,593 per annum
Location: Northallerton, North Yorkshire
Sector: Corporate Services
Sector: Corporate Management Team
Sector: Legal
Job Role: Head of Service
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Head of Legal – (Commercial & Projects) (Full Time) in Northallerton employer: New Start
New Start is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and growth of its employees, offering a supportive work culture focused on recovery and social reintegration. With a competitive salary and opportunities for professional development, staff are empowered to make a meaningful impact in the lives of residents while enjoying a balanced work-life schedule. Located in a vibrant community, employees benefit from a collaborative environment that fosters innovation and personal fulfilment.
