Principle Lawyer

As the Principal Lawyer you will lead on Planning-related legal matters, providing crucial legal advice to support our work in shaping the future of Wokingham. This pivotal role will include leading a team of legal professionals, providing expert legal advice and especially support in the crucial area of planning and development. 

You will be responsible for implementing a consistent, corporate approach to legal advice and acting as an expert advisor in respect to the law, best practice and procedure. You will manage the relevant legal team in delivery of legal advice and guidance.

Wokingham Borough Council is a dynamic and progressive local authority committed to delivering high quality services to our community. It’s an exciting time to join us, you will have the opportunity to work on a range of interesting, high profile and rewarding projects across the borough.

We offer flexible working arrangements, with the option to hybrid work between home and the office in Wokingham, in addition to the necessary in-person meetings based on business needs.

Benefits:

Not only is this an excellent opportunity, but it’s a fantastic time to join our team. You will receive an extensive range of employee benefits including:

⭐ A generous annual leave entitlement of 31 days (rising to 36 days after 5 years continued local government service), plus Bank Holidays

⭐ An excellent local government pension scheme

⭐ Use of a free onsite gym (located at Shute End office)

⭐ Salary sacrifice car & cycle to work schemes

⭐ A range of local & lifestyle discounts

⭐ An employee assistance programme including 24/7 wellbeing helpline

⭐ And much more!

Key responsibilities:

• To be a member of the LIGS Leadership Team taking a proactive role in ensuring that (i) the Council’s vision, values and objective are met and (ii) the LIGS service plan is understood and delivered, both in accordance with the law and best practice
• Be the professional expert and act as lead advisor for relevant area of expertise within relevant legal team.
• Lead, manage and motivate the relevant legal team to deliver high performance and lead on the management and strategy of the relevant legal team
• Deputise for Head of Legal & Information Governance Services, including advising members and officers in public and private meetings, and reviewing and clearing officer reports and briefing notes to the Senior Leadership Team, the Executive, Committees/Sub-Committees and Council
• To attend Council, Executive, committees and other member meetings in person when requested by the Head of Legal & Information Governance Service or Assistant Director – Governance.

Candidate requirements:

• Qualified Lawyer in England/Wales– Solicitor, Barrister, Legal Executive
• 7 years PQE
• Demonstrate expertise in Planning law and practice.
• Good working knowledge and experience of Highways law.
• Management, supervision and helping others develop
• Must be open to technical change and innovation
• Good working knowledge and experience of Local Government Law is desirable
• Advise Planning and other Committees is desirable

Our Area

Wokingham Borough is set in the heart of Berkshire with excellent transport links to Reading and central London. Our area comprises of a vibrant and historical market town, attractive villages, and miles of beautiful countryside.

We’re home to a range of high performing schools including 69 primary and 21 secondary, a host of international businesses and an incredible community. We have a strong local economy with accelerated growth, a range of excellent public facilities and low levels of crime, offering an exceptional quality of life.

If you’re interested in this exciting opportunity, click the link below and apply today.

For further discussion please contact Neil Allen, Head of Legal & Deputy Monitoring Officer via email neil.allen@wokingham.gov.uk

Closing: Sunday 30th March 2025, 11pm

Interviews: TBC

If your application is shortlisted for an interview, you will be required to provide proof of your right to work in the UK at that stage. Additionally, successful candidates must present proof upon receiving a job offer. 

Please note that all offers are conditional and subject to the satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks.

Please be aware that we will be reviewing the applications we receive on a daily basis, and we reserve the right to close the advert early if suitable candidates are identified.     

Wokingham Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff, other workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

Wokingham is an equal opportunities employer.