Interim Director of Legal and Governance (Monitoring Officer)

Local Government Chronicle; Penrith; Hybrid; GBP 81,000 - 84,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional government authority in Penrith is seeking an Interim Director of Legal and Governance. This pivotal role requires a leader to ensure lawful, transparent decision-making and to oversee public accountability. The successful candidate will guide the development of the new Authority’s Constitution and help create a diverse workforce reflective of the communities served. This is an 18-month temporary appointment with an annual salary of £81,049 - £83,933. Apply now to make a lasting impact on the future of Cumbria.

Qualifications

• Experience in senior leadership roles within public sector.
• Strong knowledge of governance and statutory responsibilities.
• Ability to build inclusive and diverse teams.

Responsibilities

• Ensure decision-making is lawful, transparent, and robust.
• Lead development and maintenance of CA’s Constitution.
• Guide Members and officers through Authority’s formation.

Skills

Leadership

Governance

HR Management

Public Accountability

Job description

Interim Director of Legal and Governance (Monitoring Officer) - WMF2523e

Job reference: REQ

Location: Penrith (including agile working and working from home)

Contract Type: Temporary (18 months)

Salary: £81,049 - £83,933 (Package Blank)

Application closing date: 18 January 2026

Shape the Future of Cumbria

Cumbria is entering a bold new chapter. The creation of the Cumbria Combined Authority (CA) marks a once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock the full potential of one of England’s most distinctive places. With devolution bringing new powers, new investment and a directly elected Mayor from May 2027, the Authority will play a central role in driving inclusive growth, improving public services and championing the needs of communities across Cumbria.

As we establish the organisation, we are seeking exceptional, values-driven leaders to join us on a temporary (interim) basis in three statutory officer roles. These posts offer a rare opportunity to build an organisation from the ground up, set the foundations for long‑term success and leave a lasting legacy for the people of Cumbria.

Interim Director of Legal & Governance (Monitoring Officer)

As Monitoring Officer, you will play a critical role in shaping the integrity, culture and governance of the new Authority.

Providing senior leadership and statutory oversight, you will ensure that decision‑making is lawful, transparent and robust, supporting high standards of conduct and public accountability. You will lead the development and maintenance of the CA’s Constitution and guide Members and officers through the Authority’s formation and early operation.

In addition, the role leads HR and Organisational Development, helping to build an inclusive, diverse and values‑led workforce that reflects the communities the CA serves.

This interim appointment is designed to prepare the ground for a permanent Monitoring Officer in late 2027, ensuring that strong governance, effective democratic processes and organisational capability are firmly embedded from day one.

Why Join Cumbria Combined Authority?

• Be part of a brand-new organisation with real devolved powers
• Shape strategy, culture and systems from the very beginning
• Work with passionate partners across public, private and community sectors
• Make a tangible difference to places, people and opportunities across Cumbria
• Leave a lasting legacy by preparing the Authority for long‑term success

If you are inspired by the opportunity to build something new, meaningful and impactful, and to help shape the future of Cumbria, we would love to hear from you.

Join us at the start of Cumbria’s journey - and help turn ambition into reality.

Would you like to find out more?

For further information about this role, such as responsibilities and essential criteria please view the Role Profile.

If you have any queries or would like an informal conversation about this opportunity, please contact Amanda Mays: / .

Application and Interview Information

Closing date: 18 January 2026

Technical Interview: w/c 26 January 2026

Final Interview: w/c 9 February 2026

Interview details such as venue/timings will be shared with successful candidates, following the shortlisting process. If you have any concerns or adjustments are needed, we are happy to discuss this with you.

Safer Recruitment & DBS

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the safety and welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and we expect all workers, employees and volunteers to share our commitment.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Westmorland and Furness Council is committed to improving the diversity of its workforce to better reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from everyone and work to promote an inclusive, supportive culture that values and celebrates our differences.