At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal and governance services, ensuring compliance and ethical conduct.
- Company: South Gloucestershire Council, committed to innovation and community benefit.
- Benefits: Generous leave, wellbeing support, and leadership development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a diverse team dedicated to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape governance and make a real impact in your community.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor or barrister with strong leadership and governance experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
As Service Director Legal, Governance and Democratic Services Monitoring Officer you will play a pivotal strategic leadership role at the heart of South Gloucestershire Council and will be central to shaping modern, responsive and proportionate governance arrangements that support innovation, pace and organisational change. Acting as the council's statutory monitoring officer and chief legal adviser, you will help ensure that the authority operates lawfully, ethically and transparently, enabling confident decision-making that delivers real benefit for residents.
Responsibilities
- Provide strategic and operational leadership across the Legal, Governance and Democratic Services Division, ensuring statutory, constitutional and legislative compliance within a politically led organisation.
- Act as the council's monitoring officer, promoting high standards of governance and ethical conduct, and providing authoritative advice on complex, sensitive and high‑risk matters.
- Lead and develop professional teams across legal, democratic, electoral, registration and governance services, embedding a culture of high performance, accountability and continuous improvement.
- Provide trusted, evidence‑led advice to members and senior officers, supporting effective scrutiny, transparent decision-making and sound risk management.
- Oversee and modernise the constitution and governance frameworks, ensuring they are clear, accessible and aligned with the council's operating model and strategic ambitions.
- Attend evening meetings and occasional weekend working to support democratic processes.
- Join the council's Emergency Co‑ordination Officer rota as a strategic lead responder, with full training provided.
Qualifications
- Qualified solicitor or barrister with substantial post‑qualification experience in providing legal, governance and constitutional advice within a complex, politically led organisation.
- Strong track record of strategic leadership, governance redesign and organisational change, with the ability to influence across professional, managerial and political boundaries.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal and influencing skills, confident in giving clear, independent and evidence‑based advice under pressure.
- Substantial experience of risk management, assurance and ethical governance, supporting sound decision‑making and protecting organisational reputation.
- Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, and leadership on climate and carbon‑neutral ambitions.
- It would be advantageous to have experience at monitoring officer level, involvement in regional or national policy development, and knowledge of emerging areas such as data protection and AI governance.
Benefits
- Generous annual leave, wellbeing support and access to a wide range of staff discounts.
- Opportunities for leadership development and learning.
We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, welcoming applications from everyone and ensuring people are selected and developed on merit.
Service Director - Legal and Governance Monitoring Officer in Gloucester employer: South Gloucestershire Council
South Gloucestershire Council is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where strategic leadership and innovation are at the forefront of governance. With generous annual leave, comprehensive wellbeing support, and a commitment to employee development, staff are empowered to grow professionally while contributing to meaningful change in the community. The council fosters a culture of inclusivity and high performance, making it an ideal place for those seeking to make a real impact in local governance.
Contact Details:
South Gloucestershire Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Service Director - Legal and Governance Monitoring Officer in Gloucester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those already working at South Gloucestershire Council. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the council's recent projects and initiatives. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also in how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially around governance and ethical decision-making. We want to see your thought process and how you handle complex situations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can keep you fresh in their minds and show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s just good manners!
We think you need these skills to ace Service Director - Legal and Governance Monitoring Officer in Gloucester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Service Director. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see your strategic leadership abilities shine through. Share specific examples of how you've led teams or projects, especially in governance or legal contexts, to demonstrate your fit for this pivotal role.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key! Keep your language straightforward and avoid jargon. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the point while still showcasing your expertise.
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 the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at South Gloucestershire Council
✨Know Your Governance Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the legal and governance frameworks relevant to the role. Brush up on the council's constitution and any recent changes in legislation that could impact decision-making. This will show your commitment and understanding of the responsibilities you'll be taking on.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your strategic leadership experience, especially in complex, politically led environments. Think about times when you've influenced change or improved governance standards. Be ready to discuss how you can lead teams effectively and foster a culture of accountability.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially under pressure. You’ll need to provide evidence-based advice, so consider rehearsing responses to potential questions about risk management and ethical governance. Strong communication skills are key in this role, so let your confidence shine through.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Inclusion
Be prepared to discuss your views on equality, diversity, and inclusion. Share any initiatives you’ve been involved in that promote these values. This is not just a box-ticking exercise; it’s about showing that you genuinely care about creating an inclusive environment within the council.
