Head Of Legal Services (Monitoring Officer)

Company: East Midlands Councils/East Midlands Jobs
Apply for the Head Of Legal Services (Monitoring Officer)
Location: Derbyshire Dales
Job Description:

Derbyshire Dales District Council – Closing date: 25 May 2026

About the role

This is an opportunity to shape the future of governance in a modern, forward-thinking council.

As Head of Legal Services and Monitoring Officer, you will combine technical expertise with strategic leadership to support confident, lawful and accountable decision making. You will advise members and officers at the highest level, enabling innovation while ensuring strong governance, ethical standards and legal compliance. Your influence will help the Council remain resilient, transparent and responsive in a complex and evolving local government environment.

You will also lead a skilled Legal Services team, strengthening governance frameworks, supporting democratic decision-making and promoting a positive, high‑performing culture.

Who we’re looking for

You will bring post qualification experience as a solicitor or barrister, and have some experience of operating either as the deputy Monitoring Officer or in the statutory role. You’ll have a proven ability to lead complex services, shape culture, and drive strategic change. You’ll need to navigate complex governance arrangements confidently and build effective relationships across multiple political groups.

What we offer

In addition to the salary, we offer membership and contributions towards the Local Government Pension Scheme, great staff benefits including agile working, flexi‑time and access to a discount platform.

Derbyshire Dales District Council is a place of ambition, flair and imagination with a real drive and focus on continuous improvement. Our ‘One Team, One Council, One Purpose’ approach is about working together to create a brighter, better Derbyshire Dales.

Candidates must possess the necessary ‘right to work in the UK’ authorisation. We are unable to provide sponsorship or assume sponsorship of an employment visa as we do not possess a visa sponsorship licence.

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Posted: May 2nd, 2026