Deputy Director Legal and Democratic Services

As our Deputy Director, you will formally deputise for and support the Director of Legal and Democratic Services, providing strategic leadership across the whole directorate. You will be responsible for driving organisational direction, development and delivery, ensuring our services are resilient, inclusive and responsive to the needs of our communities. Acting as the Council’s expert in Local Government Law, you will advise senior officers and elected members on the regulatory implications of corporate strategy and service developments. As Deputy Monitoring Officer, you will play a key role in upholding the highest standards of governance and ethical conduct. Strategic Context This is a time of significant change and opportunity for Devon County Council. Our Strategic Plan 2025‑2029 sets out a vision to build a positive future for Devon where everyone thrives, with a clear focus on children and young people, supporting independence and dignity, continuous service improvement, a green Devon for future generations, economic inclusion and stronger communities. Our Corporate Plan 2025‑26 emphasises financial sustainability, workforce development and preparing for Local Government Reorganisation. The successful candidate will be instrumental in leading legal services through recent restructuring, ensuring our directorate is fit for the future and aligned with the council’s ambitions. Challenges and Opportunities Devon faces a unique set of challenges, including rising demand for services, financial pressures and the complexities of governance reform. At the same time, we are embracing opportunities for innovation, partnership and service redesign, with a strong commitment to inclusion, collaboration and continuous improvement. Responsibilities Lead and inspire a multi‑disciplinary team, fostering a culture of learning, innovation and high performance, and directly manage the Legal, Information Governance, Insurance and EDI departments. Champion equality, diversity and inclusion, ensuring our workplace and county are safe and welcoming for all. Provide expert legal and assurance advice to Members, Cabinet, Committees and senior officers. Build effective relationships with partners, the judiciary and external stakeholders. Support the Director in delivering public and social value, financial accountability and resilience. Play a key role in shaping the council’s response to Local Government Reorganisation, helping to design and deliver services that meet the needs of our residents. Qualifications A qualified solicitor or barrister with substantial post‑qualification and management experience. Expertise in Local Government law, corporate governance and information governance. Strategic vision, innovative thinking and the ability to drive change and improvement. Outstanding communication, influencing and partnership skills. Strong leadership and people management skills. Commitment to Devon County Council’s Values. Further Information & How to Apply To learn more about the Council’s vision, priorities and strategic direction, candidates are encouraged to review the following documents: Devon County Council Strategic Plan 2025‑2029: https://www.devon.gov.uk/strategic-plan/ Watch Councilor Julian Brazil talk about visions and values set out in the Strategic Plan. Closing date: 11 January 2026. Benefits & Working Conditions Company roles available range from legal assistant to senior solicitor. There are also opportunities for paralegal apprenticeships which provide a career progression route for legally unqualified staff. Working in a public‑sector legal environment offers many advantages over private practice. There are no billing targets and a flexible working policy enables some flexibility in working hours, along with the possibility of some homeworking – ensuring that staff are able to maintain a positive work‑life balance. About Devon County Council Devon County Council is proud to serve over 800,000 residents across a diverse and vibrant county. We offer a rewarding career, competitive salary, generous leave and flexible working arrangements. Join us to make a real difference, shape policy and service delivery and help create a fairer, greener and more prosperous future for all. #J-18808-Ljbffr