Deputy Chief Legal Officer – Deputy Monitoring Officer

About the role

The Deputy Chief Legal Officer (Deputy Monitoring Officer) will work alongside the Chief Legal & Monitoring Officer to shape governance, democratic services and legal compliance for Westmorland & Furness Council. This senior position offers the chance to influence a major transformation programme and prepare for upcoming mayoral and local elections.

Key responsibilities

• Provide authoritative advice on governance, standards, conduct and decision‑making to elected members and senior officers.
• Lead and support Democratic Services, Elections, Member Support, Information Governance and Constitutional matters.
• Deputise for the Monitoring Officer, ensuring continuity of oversight and compliance.
• Contribute to the council’s transformation programme, safeguarding legal and governance integrity.
• Prepare and review policies, procedures and guidance related to democratic processes.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in public sector legal and governance roles.
• Proven ability to advise senior political figures and senior officers.
• Strong understanding of information governance, elections law and constitutional frameworks.
• Demonstrated leadership and stakeholder management skills.

Required skills

What we offer

• Salary £81,049‑£83,933 plus a £10,000 market supplement.
• Hybrid working model with flexibility to work from home or office.
• Opportunity to shape governance at a formative stage of a new authority.
• Permanent contract with a supportive, high‑performance culture.