Head of Legal

Service Care Solutions are currently working in partnership with a Local Authority in South Yorkshire, who are seeking an experienced Head of Legal to join their Legal Services team on an interim basis.

This is an excellent opportunity for a senior local government legal professional to provide leadership and cover during a period of sick leave. The successful candidate will initially join on a 3-month contract, working 3–4 days per week, although full-time hours may be considered for the right candidate to provide additional resilience and support to the wider team.

Location: South Yorkshire/Hybrid
Contract: Initial 3-month contract
Rate: £50–£75 per hour Umbrella, dependent on experience
PAYE (Inclusive of Holiday Pay): £44.45–£66.68 per hour, dependent on experience

The role offers a hybrid working arrangement, with part-time staff expected to attend the office approximately 1–2 days per week.

As Head of Legal, you will provide senior leadership, management and strategic oversight across a broad range of local authority legal services. You will lead and develop a team of legal professionals while ensuring the delivery of a high-quality, effective and commercially focused legal service to the Council.

You will have responsibility for a number of direct reports and service areas, including:

• Property
• Procurement and Contracts
• Litigation
• Adult Social Care
• Children's Social Care

The organisation's Practice Manager will also report directly into this position.

Responsibilities as Head of Legal:

• Provide effective leadership, management and strategic direction to the Legal Services function.
• Lead, manage and develop a team of legal professionals across a range of local government legal disciplines.
• Ensure the efficient delivery of high-quality legal advice and support to senior officers, elected members and Council services.
• Provide management oversight across Property, Procurement and Contracts, Litigation, Adult Social Care and Children's Social Care.
• Support and develop direct reports, promoting a positive, collaborative and high-performing team culture.

About you as a Head of Legal:

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, CILEX Lawyer or equivalent senior legal professional.
• Previous experience working within a Local Authority or local government setting is essential.
• Previous senior management and leadership experience, including responsibility for managing and developing legal teams.
• A broad understanding of local government law and the legal issues affecting Council services.
• Knowledge and understanding of Adult Social Care and Children's Social Care legal matters.

Benefits:

• Weekly Pay
• Hybrid working
• Part-time hours
• Flexible Hours

 
If you are an experienced Head of Legal, Senior Legal Manager or Principal Lawyer with previous Local Authority experience and are available for an interim opportunity in South Yorkshire, then don't hesitate to get in touch with Aanisah Khan via email at Aanisah.Khan@servicecare.org.uk, or via phone at 01772 208969.

We also welcome referrals for this position, where a successful recommendation would be worth up to £200.