Head of Legal

Join us as a Head of Legal

Bring your strategic legal leadership to a role at the heart of a region making things happen. As our Head of Legal, youll lead and deliver high-impact legal services across a complex public sector portfolio.

Youll provide and co-ordinate high-quality and timely legal advice in relation to all aspects of the law relevant to the combined authority including (but not limited to) commercial, procurement, constitutional and public law decision-making, standards and code of conduct issues, information governance, employment, property, planning, transport and regulatory matters translating complex concepts into clear, actionable guidance for senior leaders and stakeholders. Youll shape policy and governance, drive innovative legal solutions, and ensure robust compliance that supports transformation and brilliant outcomes for our communities.

Operating at the centre of transformational change, you will lead major legal projects, support multidisciplinary programmes, and contribute to the continuous improvement of the legal function. Your leadership will ensure legal services are delivered efficiently and cost-effectively, with strong financial stewardship underpinning your approach to budget management and resource allocation. As a visible and collaborative leader, you will enhance organisational capability, uphold the highest professional standards, and support the development of your team strengthening the North East CAs ability to deliver brilliant outcomes for the region.

We are proud to be an inclusive employer, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, communities and experiences. We particularly encourage applications from candidates who are underrepresented in senior roles, including women, disabled people, LGBTQ+ people and those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds.

If you would like an informal discussion, or further information about this role please contact:

John Softly Assistant Director of Legal and Governance at ***email_hidden***

Closing date for applications: Friday 1st May 2026 at 23:59.

For further information about the North East Combined Authority please see the authoritys website

This recruitment is being administered by Durham County Council on behalf of the North East Combined Authority.