Legal Team Leader - Contentious

Venn Group; England; Hybrid; GBP 56,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority is seeking a Legal Team Leader to manage a talented team and handle a varied contentious caseload. This role involves supervising junior staff, managing civil and housing litigation, and representing the Council in court. Ideal candidates are qualified solicitors with 2-3 years PQE in litigation and a proactive approach to problem-solving. This position offers career growth, hybrid working, and a competitive salary package.

Benefits

Career growth opportunities

Hybrid working flexibility

UK healthcare package

Pension scheme access

Qualifications

• At least 2–3 years' PQE in civil litigation or housing litigation.
• Ability to supervise and support others.
• Willingness to learn and manage a varied caseload.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and support junior colleagues.
• Manage a varied caseload of civil and housing litigation.
• Represent the Council in court.

Skills

Proactive problem-solving

Supervisory skills

Handling civil litigation

Confidence in handling challenges

Education

Qualified solicitor, barrister, or FILEX

Job description

Legal Team Leader – Contentious
Package up to £55,819 | Permanent | Hybrid Working

North West Leicestershire District Council is looking for a confident and capable solicitor to lead a small, talented team and manage a varied contentious caseload. This is a great opportunity for a litigator who enjoys problem-solving and is ready to take a step into management.

The Role

You’ll supervise and support two junior colleagues, take ownership of complex matters, and help shape the direction of the Legal Services team. The role will involve a mix of hands-on casework, team management and working closely with other Team Leaders to ensure the legal department is working effectively. You will:

• Manage a varied caseload of civil litigation, housing litigation and licensing matters
• Represent the Council in court (typically twice a month)
• Work closely with colleagues to manage caseloads and improve practice
• Build confidence in new areas of law, supported by external expertise where needed

This is a role for someone who thrives on variety, is willing to “figure things out,” and enjoys mentoring others.

About You

We’re looking for:

• A qualified solicitor, barrister or FILEX (or equivalent experience)
• At least 2–3 years’ PQE in civil litigation or housing litigation
• A proactive, problem-solving approach and confidence handling new challenges
• The ability to supervise and support others, even in areas you’re still learning yourself

You don’t need previous management experience—this is a development opportunity for someone ready to step up.

Why Join Us

• Career growth: Step into management with support from experienced leaders
• Variety: A wide range of work, with scope to develop expertise in new areas
• Hybrid working: No rigid office mandate—attend when needed for meetings, committees or court

Package

• Total annual earnings: up to £55,819
• Salary: £46,784 to £51,679 (including 12% market supplement)
• Allowances: £4,140 per annum car allowance
• Working Hours: 36.25 hours per week with agile working hours scheme
• Annual Leave: 25 days, rising to 29 with five years’ service, plus 8 bank holidays and one concessionary day
• Pension: Access to the Leicestershire Local Government Pension Scheme
• Additional Benefits: UK healthcare package (includes optical, dental, physiotherapy), Employee Assistance Programme, Free on-site parking, Salary sacrifice schemes, including AVC Pension via MyMoneyMatters, additional Holiday purchase and Cycle to Work

This is an opportunity to build your leadership skills while staying close to the law, in a supportive and forward-thinking team.