At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the local coroner service and conduct complex inquests with significant public interest.
- Company: Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin Councils, committed to supporting the bereaved.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time role, and out-of-hours availability compensation.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in sensitive situations while leading a vital community service.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified barrister, solicitor, or Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives with relevant experience.
- Other info: Opportunity for judicial office until the age of 75, ensuring job security.
The predicted salary is between 137379 - 148105 £ per year.
The Guildhall, Shrewsbury
Salary £137,379 to £148,105
Closing date: 5pm Friday 20th February 2026
Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin Councils are seeking to appoint a new Senior Coroner to succeed the current post-holder who retires in July 2026.
About the Post:
The Senior Coroner stands at the head of the local coroner service and statutory coroner area and takes the lead on coroner work. They will be expected to conduct inquests which are difficult or complex or will be likely to attract significant publicity. The number of reported deaths per annum is 1716 (2024). Accordingly, we appoint our Senior Coroner with a salary on a full-time basis. The salary will include payment for out of hours availability by agreement (i.e. organ donation, faith deaths, out of England removals).
Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin Councils are looking for an exceptional candidate with excellent proven organisational, management and efficiency skills, as well as experience of exercising sound judgement and communicating effectively. You will work closely with Shropshire Council (as the lead authority) to ensure the running of an efficient coroner service that puts the bereaved at the heart of the service. Collaborative working with the local authority, the police and other stakeholders is essential.
You will be required to demonstrate knowledge and experience of coroner law and of basic medicine, have proven skills in conducting investigations and an understanding of court procedure. You will also need to demonstrate the excellent communication and interpersonal skills necessary to deal with sensitive situations.
It is essential that the successful candidate has proven experience of running or sharing running a coroner’s jurisdiction including carrying out investigations, case management, and conducting inquests.
Who can apply:
The successful candidate will be a barrister or a solicitor or Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives and satisfy the judicial-appointment eligibility condition which means they will have five years of experience whilst holding that qualification. They will be under the age of 75, have experience of working as a Senior Coroner, area coroner or assistant coroner and be subject to the appointment and eligibility conditions within the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (s.23 and Schedule 3).
Statutory terms of the Appointment:
Once a Coroner is appointed, they are then a Judicial Office holder until they reach the age of 75 years (compulsory retirement age) unless they choose to resign or are removed by the Lord Chief Justice or Lord Chancellor prior to their 75th birthday.
If you wish to have an informal discussion or arrange a visit, please contact Tim Collard, Service Director – Legal, Governance and Planning on 01743 252756 or tim.collard@shropshire.gov.uk
Suitably qualified applicants are requested to email their CV and supporting statement (which should include disclosure of any convictions or disciplinary proceedings) to molly.ashelford@shropshire.gov.uk
Notification: The vacancy for this post has been notified to the Chief Coroner and Lord Chancellor (as required by statute).
Senior Coroner for Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin in Shrewsbury employer: The Coroners
Contact Detail:
The Coroners Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Coroner for Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin in Shrewsbury
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the coroner field or related areas. Attend events, join forums, and connect on LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Senior Coroner role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on coroner law and recent cases. We want you to be ready to discuss your experience and how it aligns with the role. Practice common interview questions and have your own questions ready to show your interest.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your communication skills! In this role, you'll need to handle sensitive situations with care. During interviews, share examples of how you've effectively communicated in challenging circumstances to demonstrate your suitability.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Make sure your CV and supporting statement highlight your relevant experience and qualifications clearly. We’re rooting for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Coroner for Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin in Shrewsbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Make sure you understand the role of a Senior Coroner inside out. Brush up on coroner law and court procedures, as well as your experience in conducting investigations. We want to see that you’re not just qualified, but also passionate about the work!
Tailor Your CV: Your CV should reflect your relevant experience and skills. Highlight your background in managing coroner jurisdictions and any complex cases you've handled. We love seeing how your unique experiences make you the perfect fit for this role!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: This is your chance to shine! Use your supporting statement to explain why you’re the best candidate. Share specific examples of your communication skills and how you’ve dealt with sensitive situations. We want to feel your commitment to putting the bereaved at the heart of your service.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important details. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Coroners
✨Know Your Coroner Law
Make sure you brush up on coroner law and relevant legislation before the interview. Being able to discuss specific cases or legal precedents will show your expertise and understanding of the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Prepare to showcase your excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Think of examples where you've effectively dealt with sensitive situations, as this is crucial for a Senior Coroner.
✨Showcase Your Management Experience
Be ready to discuss your experience in managing coroner jurisdictions and conducting investigations. Highlight any instances where you've led a team or improved processes within a coroner service.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since collaboration is key, prepare to talk about your experience working with local authorities, police, and other stakeholders. Share specific examples of how you've built relationships and worked together to achieve common goals.