Head of Service, Legal Services (Deputy Monitoring Officer)

PECT; Peterborough; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A local council in Peterborough seeks a Head of Legal Services to lead a team of around 40 professionals. The role involves managing operational delivery and a £2.2m budget, focusing on modernising workflows and providing high-quality legal advice. Applicants must be qualified solicitors or barristers with public sector experience and a passion for inclusion and innovation. This position offers a significant opportunity for strategic leadership and impact within a transforming council.

Qualifications

• Experience in complex public sector environments.
• Passion for inclusion, innovation, and partnership working.
• Ability to lead in a fast-paced, politically complex environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of around 40 professionals.
• Oversee operational delivery of Legal and Land Charges services.
• Manage a £2.2m budget and lead financial processes.

Skills

Public sector experience

Emotional intelligence

Client engagement

Team leadership

Education

Qualified solicitor or barrister

Job description

Shape the Future, a City of Opportunity

Peterborough is one of the UK’s most dynamic and fast‑growing cities. With a refreshed Corporate Strategy focused on inclusive growth, regeneration, and financial sustainability, we’re transforming how we work – and legal services are central to that journey.

We’re now seeking a Head of Legal Services to lead our capable team and act as Deputy Monitoring Officer. This is a high‑impact leadership role, reporting to the Director of Legal & Governance. You’ll be responsible for the operational delivery of Legal and Land Charges services, managing a team of around 40 professionals across a wide range of specialisms – including child protection, education, commercial contracts, planning, property, litigation, and adult social care.

You’ll also play a key role in modernising workflows, improving performance, and ensuring the team delivers high‑quality, cost‑effective legal advice and outcomes. You’ll lead on client engagement, staff development – including legal trainee schemes, apprenticeships, and other development pathways. You’ll be responsible for a £2.2m budget and will lead on financial processes, billing, and contract management.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a senior lawyer ready to step into a strategic leadership role.

About You

You’ll need to be a qualified solicitor or barrister with experience in complex public sector environments, and a passion for inclusion, innovation, and partnership working. Whether you’re a current Deputy Monitoring Officer or looking to take that next step, we want someone with energy, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to making a difference.

You’ll be joining a council that’s modernising and reintegrating services, with a strong focus on governance, inclusion, and staff development. You will have the opportunity to shape the future of legal services, support major regeneration and commercial projects, and contribute to the council’s wider transformation agenda.

This is a role for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced, politically complex environment and wants to make a tangible impact. If you’re ready to lead with integrity, challenge the status quo, and help build a legal service fit for the future, we’d love to hear from you.

For more information or to discuss the role, please contact our recruitment partners at Gatenby Sanderson:

Frazer Thouard ([e-mail]) or Louise Bickley ([e-mail])

Closing date: Sunday 9th November.

To apply please click the Apply Now link below.