Job Description

Organisation

Other

Service Area

N/A

Job Location

To be confirmed - Location with the Mayoral Combined County Authority

Contract Length

12 Months Fixed Term Contract

Work Hours

Full Time

Salary

100,000 per annum

Special Requirements

This post is politically restricted under part 1 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.

Closing Date

23/11/2025

Job Reference

16176

Be part of shaping the future of Hampshire and the Solent (HatS)

Hampshire and the Solent (HatS) Combined County Authority is being created to unlock the full potential of our region -- bringing together the Mayor, local councils, business, education and communities to deliver inclusive, sustainable growth.



As part of the Devolution Priority Programme, we'll have new powers and investment to transform transport, housing, skills, net zero and economic growth. This is a real chance to connect opportunity with need, strengthen our economy, and make Hampshire and the Solent (HatS) an outstanding place to live, work, study and invest.

Director of Legal and Governance & Monitoring Officer - Strategic Authority

We are seeking an exceptional legal leader to join our executive team as Director of Legal and Governance & Monitoring Officer. This is a pivotal role in our newly formed Strategic Authority, responsible for ensuring the highest standards of legal compliance, governance, and ethical conduct.



As Monitoring Officer, you will fulfil statutory duties under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989, safeguarding the integrity of decision-making and ensuring the authority operates lawfully and transparently. You'll lead our Legal Services and Democratic Governance functions, providing expert advice to the Mayor, Chief Executive, elected members, and senior officers.



This role could be a Fixed Term Contract or Secondment. If you are interested in a Secondment please discuss this with your line manager.



This roles will operate on a hybrid work pattern, with approximately 3 days per week in an office location and 2 days per week at home (flexibility to attend meetings held onsite is important)

Key Responsibilities

Fulfil statutory duties as Monitoring Officer, ensuring legal and ethical compliance. Lead the Legal Services team, overseeing litigation, contracts, procurement, and regulatory matters. Shape and maintain governance frameworks, including the Constitution and decision-making protocols. Provide strategic legal advice on complex issues and constitutional matters. Lead the democratic services function and corporate assurance activities. Represent the authority in high-level legal forums and external partnerships.

Who We're Looking For

You'll bring:


Extensive post-qualification experience as a senior legal professional in local government or similar. In-depth knowledge of public law, governance, and statutory responsibilities. Proven leadership in managing complex legal issues and delivering strategic change. Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder engagement skills. A qualified solicitor or barrister entitled to practise in England and Wales.

This is a politically restricted post under Part 1 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.

Why Join Us?

This is a rare opportunity to shape the legal and governance landscape of a forward-thinking regional authority. You'll work alongside senior leaders to deliver public value, transparency, and integrity at the heart of regional transformation.

Contact details for informal discussion:

For further information and details regarding the role, please contact Charlotte Burton, at Charlotte.Burton@southampton.gov.uk

Recruitment contact details:

Email: recruitment@southampton.gov.uk

Tel: 023 8083 4033

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