Governance Solicitor / Deputy Monitoring Officer

Overview

In this locum role, you will act as Deputy Monitoring Officer and provide expert governance advice within a London borough. You will support the Monitoring Officer, advise elected members and senior officers on the constitution, decision-making, and standards, and help ensure lawful, transparent decisions. You’ll work across council meetings, committee reports, and governance reviews in a politically sensitive environment. The position offers senior-level governance work in a public sector setting and the chance to shape council governance alongside an established legal team.

Responsibilities

• Act as Deputy Monitoring Officer and deputise for the Monitoring Officer as required
• Advise on constitution, delegations, procedure rules, and decision-making powers
• Provide legal guidance at council, cabinet and committee meetings
• Review reports for legal and governance implications
• Advise on member conduct and standards, including investigations
• Support review and maintenance of the council’s constitution
• Advise on access to information, call-in process and transparency
• Support electoral and democratic services on legal queries
• Prepare clear written advice for members and senior stakeholders
• Maintain accurate records of advice and matters handled

Key requirements

• Qualified solicitor, barrister or Chartered Legal Executive, or equivalent legal qualification
• Substantial post-qualification experience in local government law
• Sound knowledge of local authority governance, decision-making and standards frameworks
• Experience advising elected members and senior officers
• Ability to work independently and manage a varied caseload to deadlines
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Independent working style
• Clear written and verbal communication
• Ability to navigate politically sensitive environments
• Knowledge of local authority governance frameworks
• Experience advising at council/committee meetings
• Understanding of access to information and transparency requirements

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