At West Northants Council, good governance is at the heart of everything we do. As a Senior Lawyer (Governance), you’ll play a key role in supporting the Council’s democratic and decision-making processes, helping to ensure the highest standards of governance, accountability and transparency across the organisation.
Working within our Law and Governance service, you’ll provide specialist legal advice on a broad range of governance matters, supporting Members, senior officers and key decision-makers. This is an exciting opportunity to join one of England’s newest and largest unitary councils and contribute to a modern, ambitious and forward-thinking legal service where your expertise will help shape how the Council operates and serves its communities.
Whether you are already working in local government, looking to move from private practice or seeking a flexible opportunity to apply your governance expertise, you'll find a supportive environment where your knowledge and experience can make a real impact.
What will you be doing?
You’ll provide expert legal advice and support on governance matters, working closely with the Monitoring Officer, Deputy Monitoring Officer, Members and senior officers. Your work will include advising on member and officer conduct issues, supporting investigations under the Members’ Code of Conduct, advising on regulatory matters including RIPA, and providing legal input on reports, policies and decision-making processes.
You’ll attend meetings to provide legal and procedural advice, support the development of governance frameworks and help ensure the Council meets its statutory responsibilities. As a senior member of the team, you’ll also contribute to the development of colleagues through mentoring, training and knowledge sharing, while helping to strengthen and improve the legal service.
It’s an exciting time to join our legal team as we continue to develop and strengthen our services.
About you
You’re a qualified Solicitor with a strong interest in governance, public law and supporting effective decision-making within a complex organisation. You’re confident providing advice on sensitive and challenging issues, balancing legal requirements with practical solutions and sound judgement.
You bring excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships and influence stakeholders at all levels. You’re comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, managing competing priorities and interpreting complex legislation and guidance. Experience of governance, standards, conduct matters or local government would be beneficial, but we are also keen to hear from candidates with transferable experience and a passion for public service.
West Northants is a great place to build your career. With a focus on wellbeing, flexibility, mentoring and professional development, we are committed to helping our people thrive. Above all, you’ll share our THRIVE values and our commitment to delivering high-quality legal services that support the Council, its Members and the communities we serve
