Head of Legal Services & Deputy Monitoring Officer

Head of Legal Services & Deputy Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council

£67,236 - £71,223 plus up to a 10% golden hello

Market Harborough, Leicestershire

Permanent, Full Time (37 hours per week)

Harborough is a thriving, diverse district in the south of rural Leicestershire, combining vibrant market towns with beautiful countryside and strong community spirit. We are ambitious for our district and committed to delivering excellent services that make a real difference to residents and businesses.

THE ROLE

Reporting to the Deputy Chief Executive and as a key member of our senior leadership team, you will ensure that your service provides expert legal advice on complex and sensitive matters, including commercial contracts, property, planning, litigation, and public law. You will also act as Deputy Monitoring Officer, ensuring the highest standards of conduct and governance across the organisation.

With scope to shape the service you will oversee service improvement, efficiency, and resilience, supporting transformation and digital innovation. As part of your wider leadership role you will work collaboratively with elected members, senior officers, and external partners to deliver our corporate priorities, including supporting our work in shaping LGR for the county.

ABOUT YOU

We are seeking a qualified solicitor or barrister with significant experience of providing complex legal advice in a local authority setting. It will be important that you can demonstrate political awareness, excellent communication skills, and the ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders.

This role would be well suited to an experienced senior lawyer who is seeking their first role as a head of service. We are committed to supporting and developing our staff and would be delighted to assist your ongoing career development including opportunities to deputise for the Monitoring Officer.

WHY JOIN US?

This is a leadership role where your expertise will have a direct impact on the Council's success and reputation. You will enjoy a varied and challenging portfolio, the opportunity to influence strategic decision making, and the chance to make a real difference for our communities.

For more information and to apply, please visit or contact Tom Ripley ( or ) or Emily Lockwood ( or ).

Closing date: Sunday 15th February 2026

Preliminary interviews: 23rd February 2026

Final interviews: w/c 9th March 2026