Head of Law and Governance and Monitoring Officer

Crawley Borough Council; Crawley; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government council in Crawley is seeking a Head of Law and Governance to oversee strategic decision-making, work closely with leadership, and ensure sound governance. The ideal candidate will have significant legal experience and demonstrate excellent leadership and communication skills. This role offers a flexible working environment with great benefits.

Benefits

Generous leave

Pension scheme

Supportive working environment

Qualifications

• Significant post-qualification experience required.
• Ability to balance rigour with strategic leadership.
• Demonstrated commitment to sound governance.

Responsibilities

• Be at the heart of strategic decision-making.
• Work closely with elected members and leadership team.
• Manage change while prioritizing community needs.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Political Acumen

Education

Qualified legal and governance professional

Job description

Overview

Crawley is a sub-regional powerhouse with a diverse population of 120,000 residents, a £6bn+ economy and the world’s busiest single runway airport. Our motto is ‘I Grow and I Rejoice’.

Role context

As Head of Law and Governance you join at a critical time. In February 2024, the council declared a Housing Emergency recognising the related challenges of the scale of temporary accommodation, demand, affordability, water neutrality and the impact on the council’s finances. In February 2025, the government made a statutory request to councils across Sussex to develop proposals for Local Government Reorganisation.

Role and responsibilities

The Monitoring Officer role is more important than ever. You will be at the heart of our strategic decision‑making, working closely with elected members, the Chief Executive, and the wider leadership team.

You will be a forward-thinking, appropriately qualified, legal and governance professional with significant post‑qualification experience. You will be a leader who can balance rigour with strategic leadership and help us manage change while keeping our communities at the heart of everything we do. You should be able to demonstrate excellent leadership, communication, and political acumen.

Working environment and benefits

The council fosters a collegiate and supportive working environment offering hybrid working. We have grade A offices at the new Town Hall. You will also have access to excellent benefits, including generous leave and pension scheme.

How to apply

If you are passionate about public service and committed to sound governance, then this is the opportunity to be part of a forward-looking council at the forefront of local government reform.

To arrange an informal discussion please contact Kembi Coakelin at Gatenby Sanderson.

Application details

Closing date: 1st October (11.55pm)
Technical interviews: 10 October
Final interviews: 15 October

To apply please click the Apply Now link below.