Senior Governance Lawyer (Public Sector, Remote)

South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils (trading as South & Vale); Abingdon; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils are seeking a qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Legal Executive with substantial public-sector experience to provide expert legal advice across local government functions.

The role includes drafting and negotiating legal documents, representing the Council in courts and tribunals, instructing external counsel, and supporting governance and democratic decision-making.

Qualifications

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Legal Executive with significant public-sector experience.
• Ability to manage a heavy workload and engage with partners, professionals and politicians.
• Experience leading teams of specialists in a legal environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice across local government functions.
• Draft, review and negotiate legal documents, contracts and policies.
• Represent the Council in courts, tribunals and negotiations.
• Instruct and manage external legal counsel.
• Support governance, decision-making and regulatory compliance.
• Develop legal policies and deliver staff training.

Skills

Public sector experience

Legal analysis

Advisory skills

Policy development

Education

Qualified Solicitor/Barrister/Legal Executive

Tools

Case management software

Legal drafting tools

Job description

South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils are seeking a qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Legal Executive with substantial public-sector experience to provide expert legal advice across local government functions.

The role includes drafting and negotiating legal documents, representing the Council in courts and tribunals, instructing external counsel, and supporting governance and democratic decision-making.