Head of Legal, People Place & Regulation at Manchester City Council

About the role

• As Head of Legal, People Place & Regulation, you will provide leadership across five specialist teams—Community, Employment, Housing & Neighbour Nuisance, Litigation, and Regulatory & Enforcement. Reporting to the Assistant Director, you will play a key role in operational leadership, deputising as required and ensuring the delivery of high‑quality, insightful and solutions‑focused legal services.
• You will also take a lead on cross‑cutting legal initiatives, oversee risk and LEXCEL compliance, support income and performance management, and carry a personal caseload of complex and sensitive matters.
• This is a pivotal leadership role in a fast-moving, politically dynamic environment where your work will influence major decisions and real‑world outcomes for Manchester, Salford and our wider partners.

About the Candidate
What we’re looking for

• We’re seeking an exceptional legal leader—credible, collaborative and forward‑thinking. Someone who can bring people with them, inspire confidence, and deliver outstanding results across a large and varied portfolio.

You will bring:

• Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive status (with litigation rights).
• Significant experience managing complex legal work in a large, multifaceted organisation.
• Proven ability to build strong, trusted client relationships, including on sensitive and high‑profile matters.
• Demonstrable experience within at least two of the following areas; Community (Adult Social Care & Education), Employment, Housing, Litigation and Regulatory & Enforcement
• Strong strategic thinking, political awareness and the ability to influence at senior level.
• A track record of leading teams, driving performance, and delivering high‑quality legal outcomes.
• Understanding of the wider national policy landscape for local government.

What we offer

You’ll join an accredited service that values innovation, professional development and flexible working. Benefits include:

• Competitive salary with annual pay progression
• Hybrid working
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• 26 days’ annual leave (rising to 31 after five years)
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
• A wealth of additional staff benefits and development opportunities

End Date: 12th April 2026