Principal Lawyer

Principal Lawyer (Property)

Following a recent restructure this is an exciting time for an experience property lawyer to join the Guildford legal team and lead the property legal team.

Providing legal advice and support to the Council as Principal Lawyer (Property) the work will cover a wide range and variety of matters across the Council's diverse property portfolio, including leases, licences, projects, developments and disputes.  You will work closely with the Assets, Parks & Countryside  and Housing teams building on client relationships, managing and taking responsibility for delivering the requirements of the service.  As part of the in-house legal team you will have the opportunity to help to shape the future for Guildford whilst managing, supporting and developing the property legal team to deliver high standards of legal advice and support to teams across the Council in relation to property matters.

As part of the legal team's leadership you will assist in ensuring the team provides a comprehensive, efficient and effective legal service.   Ensuring compliance with statutory regulations, legislation, professional codes of practice and adherence to Council policy. You will deliver updated policies and procedures, projects, interventions and initiatives in conjunction with the team across the Council. 

The legal team at Guildford works closely together sharing knowledge and experience and supporting individuals to grow and develop.  The team regularly holds social events to bring the team together and celebrate their hard work and successes throughout the year.  It is a diverse team with a wide range of experience, and you will have the opportunity to grow and expand your knowledge with the support of the team whilst providing mentoring and guidance to colleagues.    

You must be a qualified solicitor, barrister, legal executive (Fellow) or equivalent with at least three years experience of working in property.  You should have management experience or be able to demonstrate the skills and potential to successfully manage the property legal team. 

Although you will be based from our offices close to Guildford Town Centre we offer flexible working and will consider both full time and part time applications.  

In return, we offer an opportunity to undertake interesting, varied and high profile work, job satisfaction, training and work life balance.  In addition you will be rewarded with an attractive package of staff benefits which includes local government pension scheme membership, flexible work arrangements, remote working, generous leave, tax savings on child care costs, training and development, annual subscription for professional membership to a professional organisation and staff discounts.

Closing date for applications 26th May

Proposed date for interviews 30th & 31st May, 3rd June

Appointment Type Permanent Position Full Time/Part Time Full-time Job Category Legal Hours 37 Location Millmead House, Millmead, Guildford GU2 4BB Salary Min Grade 8 - £53,976 Salary Max Grade 8 - £59,417 DBS Security Clearance Level Required Not Applicable Closing Date 26/05/2024 Ref No 10739 Documents

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Job Profile

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About Guildford

Guildford is a regional centre for leisure, business, education, shopping and culture set in beautiful countryside that includes the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Guildford is a thriving market town and is a principal shopping destination with a vibrant night time economy. The town’s geographical location provides excellent transport links in all directions, London is just 30 minutes away on the train and the town is well-served by frequent bus routes and subsidised Park and Ride facilities.  All of this contributes to a quality of life that attracts many people to live, work in and visit Guildford.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All employment decisions are made on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need. Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff and post-holders to share this commitment.  To fulfil this commitment we have robust systems in place for the safe recruitment of staff and volunteers.

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