Legal and Information Governance Manager

Lawyers In Local Government; Horsham; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government council in England is seeking a legally qualified professional to lead the Legal and Information Governance Team. This role involves managing legal services, providing expert advice, and overseeing information governance. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills and extensive knowledge of FOI and Data Protection legislation. This is a permanent, full-time position with a competitive salary and generous benefits.

Benefits

Local government pension

Generous leave

Flexible working policy

Qualifications

• Experience leading a legal services unit.
• Knowledge of Information Governance and Data Protection legislation.
• Management experience in politically influenced environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Council’s Legal Services Unit.
• Provide expert legal advice in high profile matters.
• Oversee the Land Charges function for the Council.

Skills

Excellent leadership skills

Strong organisational skills

Effective communication skills

Extensive knowledge of FOI and Data Protection

Job description

Location: South Derbyshire District Council, Swadlincote

Reference: JOB/25/03481

Salary details: £55,610 to £57,866 per annum plus 3 SCP for Data Protection Officer

Job term: Full Time

Appointment type: Permanent

Hours: 37 hours per week

Closing Date: 15 December 2025

We’re seeking an experienced and motivated legally qualified professional to lead our Legal and Information Governance Team. You’ll manage a dedicated team to deliver high-quality legal advice and assistance to officers and elected members, coordinate the Council’s response to requests for information and manage the Council’s Land Charges function.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and manage the Council’s Legal Services Unit.
• Provide expert advice, assistant and representation in high profile legal matters.
• Provide expert advice on Information Governance matters and be the Council’s Data Protection Officer.
• Oversee the Council’s Land Charges function which is currently undertaken by a neighbouring authority.
• Support the Monitoring Officer and Deputy Monitoring Officer.

About You

• Extensive knowledge and experience of FOI and Data Protection Subject Access requests
• Management experience working in an environment that has politically influenced decision making structure elections, electoral registration, or democratic services.
• Strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills.
• A commitment to high standards, continuous improvement, and public service.

Why Join Us

This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in the Council. We offer a local government pension, generous leave, and operate a flexible working policy.

Provisional Interview Date: Thursday 8 January 2026