Position Title: Head of Legal, People place & Regulation
Location: Manchester
Department: Legal Services
Salary: Grade SS1, £72,031 – £77,783 (pay award pending)
Working Hours: Monday to Friday
Contract Type: Permanent, Full Time – 35 hours per week
Closing Date: Sunday 26th July 2026
Interview: W/C 17th August 2026
About the role
As Head of Legal, People Place & Regulation you will lead five specialist teams: Community, Employment, Housing & Neighbour Nuisance, Litigation, and Regulatory & Enforcement. Reporting to the Assistant Director, you will provide operational leadership, deputise as required and ensure delivery of high‑quality, insightful and solutions‑focused legal services.
You will also take a lead on cross‑cutting legal initiatives, oversee risk and LEXCEL compliance, support income and performance management, and carry a personal caseload of complex and sensitive matters.
This is a pivotal leadership role in a fast‑moving, politically dynamic environment where your work will influence major decisions and real‑world outcomes for Manchester, Salford and wider partners.
What we’re looking for
- Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive status (with litigation rights)
- Significant experience managing complex legal work in a large, multifaceted organisation
- Proven ability to build strong, trusted client relationships on sensitive and high‑profile matters
- Demonstrable experience within at least two of the following areas: Community (Adult Social Care & Education), Employment, Housing, Litigation and Regulatory & Enforcement
- Strong strategic thinking, political awareness and the ability to influence at senior level
- A track record of leading teams, driving performance, and delivering high‑quality legal outcomes
- Understanding of the wider national policy landscape for local government
What we offer
- Competitive salary with annual pay progression
- Hybrid working
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- 26 days’ annual leave (rising to 31 after five years)
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
- Additional staff benefits and development opportunities
Contact
For a confidential discussion contact: andrew.barton@penna.com or 07922 386 432
Manchester City Council is an equal opportunity employer. We actively welcome applications from people of all ages and backgrounds, particularly from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic communities, disabled people and young people. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and providing reasonable adjustments for all applicants.
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