Chief Legal Officer
Salary: £101,275 - £117,266
Join an award-winning council with genuine momentum.
Sandwell Council is one of the West Midlands' largest and most ambitious local authorities, serving more than 300,000 residents across six towns. Having undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, the Council is now focused on building on that progress, driving continuous improvement and delivering excellent outcomes for its communities.
We are now seeking an exceptional legal leader to join us as Chief Legal Officer and play a pivotal role in shaping the next chapter of Sandwell's journey.
About the role
Reporting to the Executive Director for Finance and Transformation, you will be the Council's principal legal adviser, providing strategic legal leadership across a large, complex and politically led organisation. You will advise elected members and senior leaders on significant legal, governance and regulatory matters, ensuring the highest standards of legality, transparency and public accountability.
This is a highly influential corporate leadership role with responsibility for Legal Services alongside a broader portfolio that includes Procurement, Registration Services and Data Compliance. While strong legal expertise is essential, this appointment is about much more than technical legal advice. It is an opportunity to lead organisational improvement, shape governance, oversee key transformation programmes and provide trusted challenge and support at the heart of the Council.
A particular priority will be supporting the ongoing transformation of Procurement, strengthening governance, assurance and organisational controls, while continuing the development of modern, customer-focused professional services that enable the Council to achieve its ambitions.
About you
We are looking for an outstanding legal professional with experience of leading legal services within local government or a comparable public sector environment. As the Council's senior legal professional, you will be a trusted adviser and comfortable providing constructive challenge, navigating competing priorities and helping shape decisions that support both good governance and the delivery of the Council's ambitions.
You will have a track record of leading change and improvement, with experience of modernising services, developing high-performing teams and driving better outcomes. Equally important is your ability to think strategically, influence beyond professional boundaries and provide practical, solution-focused advice that supports organisational success.
If you are looking for a role where your advice is valued, your influence extends far beyond legal services and your leadership can make a lasting impact, we would like to hear from you.
Find out more
For a confidential discussion about the opportunity, please contact, Chantelle Wooldridge on 07557018320 or Anita Denton on 07725 554802.
Closing date for applications: Midnight on Sunday 15th November
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Chief Legal Officer employer: Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
Sandwell Council offers a unique opportunity to work in a supportive and diverse environment, where employees are valued for their contributions to the community. With a strong focus on employee development, this apprenticeship provides not only hands-on experience in horticulture and grounds maintenance but also a pathway to a Level 2 qualification, ensuring that you grow both personally and professionally. The council's commitment to empathy and sensitivity in its services makes it an excellent employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their local area.
Contact Details:
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council Recruitment Team
