Job Description

Job Overview

RPS is working on behalf of our client based in the New Forest, Lyndhurst, to recruit a highly skilled Service Manager - Legal.

Are you an experienced legal professional looking for a senior leadership role where you can make a tangible impact?

This is a fantastic opportunity to lead Legal Services, Information Governance and Corporate Complaints, ensuring the organisation consistently receives expert, reliable, and forward-thinking advice.

If you thrive in a strategic environment, enjoy developing others, and can operate confidently at a senior level, this could be the role for you.

As the organisation's senior legal adviser and Deputy Monitoring Officer, you'll provide authoritative guidance to senior officers, Members, committees, and external partners. You'll lead a professional team, oversee a budget of around 5 million, and contribute to key corporate priorities and strategic decision-making.

This high-profile role requires excellent judgement, strong leadership, and the ability to balance operational delivery with strategic direction.

Duties

Leading Legal Services, Information Governance, and Corporate Complaints to deliver a high-quality, responsive, and customer-focused service. Acting as Deputy Monitoring Officer and providing expert legal advice on complex matters. Managing, developing, and coaching professional staff across your service areas. Providing clear and practical legal, governance, and complaint-handling advice. Commissioning and overseeing external specialist solicitors and counsel where required. Developing policies, strategies, and service plans aligned with the organisation's corporate priorities. Representing the organisation in high-level meetings with Members, committees, professional bodies, and external partners. Applying sound judgement to complex issues and identifying solution-focused options. Supporting and deputising for the Monitoring Officer on key governance matters. Championing learning, development, and professional excellence across the service.

About You

Essential:

Admitted Solicitor or Barrister with extensive post-qualification experience. Strong experience in local authority law (civil and criminal). Proven ability to lead, manage, and develop professional teams. Confident providing high-level specialist advice in politically sensitive environments. Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to persuade, negotiate, and influence at senior levels. Strong analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. Ability to work autonomously and use good judgement when escalating matters. Experience in developing policy, managing change, and delivering complex projects. Strong financial and ICT skills. Collaborative, flexible, and customer-focused.

Desirable:

Qualification in strategic or operational management.

Working Arrangements

Hybrid working: approx. 50% of the week

, with the expectation to attend the office more frequently when required for meetings or service needs. Occasional evening meetings or lone working may be necessary. Participation in the organisation's Emergency Planning function as required.

Why Join Our Client?

Lead a high-performing, well-respected legal and governance service. Autonomy to drive change, influence strategy, and deliver meaningful impact. Supportive leadership environment and strong corporate values. Competitive salary (66k-70k) and excellent LG benefits. Hybrid working and a modern, collaborative working environment.

Apply Now

RPS is working on behalf of our client. Apply now or email your CV to amy@rpsrecruitment.co.uk

Job Type: Fixed term contract
Contract length: 6 months

Pay: 66,000.00-70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

On-site parking Work from home
Work Location: In person