Head of Governance (Monitoring Officer)

Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority; Lincoln; On-site; GBP 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional governance authority in Lincoln is looking for a dedicated Head of Governance (Monitoring Officer) with expertise in public sector law. This vital role involves establishing governance frameworks, ensuring legal compliance, and advising leadership on legal matters. Candidates need to have substantial post-qualification experience, build partnerships within political environments, and contribute to a culture of transparency and accountability. This position offers a competitive salary, and applicants must have the right to work in the UK without sponsorship.

Qualifications

• Significant post-qualification experience in public sector law and administration.
• Thrives in complex political environments.
• Ability to build trust across diverse partnerships.

Responsibilities

• Establish and embed robust governance frameworks.
• Act as principal legal adviser to the Mayor and Members.
• Ensure compliance with statutory obligations.

Skills

Public sector law

Governance frameworks

Legal advising

Strategic influence

Education

Qualified solicitor, barrister or chartered legal executive

Job description

Job Title

Head of Governance (Monitoring Officer) - £75,000 - £85,000 (subject to experience)

Working Pattern: Full-time Office Based

Location: Lincoln (Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority)

Closing Date: Monday 12 January 2026

Interview Day: Thursday 05 February 2026

Overview

The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority (GLCCA) is seeking a highly skilled and forward-thinking governance professional to take on the pivotal role of Head of Governance. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the governance culture of a newly formed authority, ensuring transparency, accountability, and legal integrity in all aspects of its work.

As the Authority’s first Monitoring Officer, you will play a central role in establishing and embedding robust governance frameworks, overseeing democratic services, and ensuring compliance with statutory obligations. You will act as the principal legal adviser to the Mayor and Members, guiding the organisation through complex legal and constitutional matters while promoting a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

We are looking for a qualified solicitor, barrister, or chartered legal executive with significant post‑qualification experience in public sector law and administration. This is a role for someone who thrives in complex political environments, builds trust across diverse partnerships, and leads with integrity and purpose. You will be instrumental in shaping the Authority’s governance culture, ensuring decisions are lawful, effective, and aligned with the needs of our communities.

If you are ready to take on a leadership role that combines legal expertise, strategic influence, and public service impact, we invite you to apply and help build a trusted, transparent, and high‑performing organization.

Employer

Please note, this role is with the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority (GLCCA), not with Lincolnshire County Council.

Location and travel

The role will be based on site in Lincoln. The successful candidate will be required to be in the office full‑time with occasional travel across Greater Lincolnshire and to partner locations.

How to apply

Please upload your CV and complete the covering statement section of the application form. In no more than 1,000 words, explain how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role.

Enquiries

For an informal chat about the role with Lee Sirdifield, Interim Chief Operating Officer, please email: [e-mail] to arrange a mutually suitable date and time.

Right to work and sponsorship

These roles are not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. The Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority does not currently hold a Home Office sponsor licence. Applicants must therefore have the existing right to work in the UK at the time of application and for the duration of employment.

The role is politically restricted under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 (as amended) and will be based full‑time in Greater Lincolnshire, with a requirement to travel.

Our values and transformation

The postholder is expected to uphold GLCCA’s values and contribute to organisational transformation.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding awareness is essential; all employees must follow GLCCA’s safeguarding policies when working with vulnerable individuals.

Adjustments and accessibility

We welcome applications from everyone. If you need a reasonable adjustment at any stage of the process, please tell us at the email above and we will make arrangements.