Legal Services Manager

Legal Services Manager leading a team of specialist advisers for South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils, with a role in shaping the future of southern Oxfordshire, including the planned unitary council. The work covers local government legal advice, drafting and negotiating contracts and policies, representing the council in courts and tribunals, and advising members and committees. The post is largely home-based, with occasional evening committees and deed sealing in person, so a current driving licence and access to a business-use vehicle are needed. No visa sponsorship is offered, so candidates must already have the right to work in the UK.

What the job involves

• Provide expert legal advice across local government functions
• Draft, review and negotiate legal documents, agreements, contracts, policies and reports
• Represent the council in courts, tribunals, inquiries, hearings and negotiations
• Manage a varied caseload efficiently and effectively
• Advise members, committees and officers on legal and constitutional matters
• Instruct and manage external legal counsel when required
• Ensure legal matters progress within agreed timescales
• Identify and mitigate legal and regulatory risks
• Review reports and decisions to ensure legal compliance
• Deliver training and guidance to officers and members
• Develop positive working relationships with clients and stakeholders
• Assist in developing legal policies, procedures and best practice

Qualifications

• Qualified solicitor, barrister or legal executive

Experience

• Significant experience of handling a complex workload in a public sector environment
• Experience of leading teams of specialists

Skills & knowledge

• Ability to engage confidently with partner agencies, other professionals and politicians

Checks & eligibility

• Current driving licence with daily access to a vehicle insured for business use
• Legal right to work in the UK, as no visa sponsorship is available

What’s offered

• Very flexible hours system
• Technology to support efficient home-based working
• Support to develop experience, knowledge and career

#J-18808-Ljbffr…