Interim Legal Manager - Local Authority/Public Sector

Interim Legal Manager - Local Authority/Public Sector

My client is looking an experienced interim Legal Manager to contribute to the leadership and management of the organization as an active member of the Operational Management Team (OMT) to ensure that there is strategic coherence and effective prioritization in delivering the ambitions of the organization through legal services. Undertaking first line day to day operational management of the legal services mainly by the Team Leaders.  The development, implementation and maintenance of a commercial culture across legal services to ensure as a minimum the business case objectives are achieved and that the legal services unit is fit for purpose within the organizations commissioning environment and the local government landscape generallyTo further refine and cultivate all aspects of the legal service to maximize income generation, sustainability of services and value for money to ensure that the service is a viable traded service. The provision of inspirational and innovative leadership to staff in order to ensure that the teams all deliver on their part of the deliverables. The delivery of an income generating environment which is developed in a targeted way, capable of being performance managed, beneficial to the organization as well as being within the law and professional standards.  Such to include the continual review of spotting, developing and implementing good practice to maintain the viability of the legal service unit. Close working relationships with existing and new partners in order to establish effective services and products which meet their requirement, in particular to develop a shared services offer. To further develop the external customer base by ensuring that products and services are suitable for a wider market whilst building an environment to sustain further sustainability. Maintain a watching brief and report regularly to the head of law on resources in general and particularly on the delivery of the service being within budget and where applicable on the progress towards income generation targets. Ensure the provision of appropriate governance arrangements which maintain integrity and comply with organizational standards whist encouraging further innovations. The legal lead and/or guidance of others for ad hoc strategic projects and support the deputy monitoring officer duties. Cover for the head of law from time to time as required. To develop strong and effective partnerships with other public, private and 3rd sector organizations so that strategies can be developed jointly, where appropriate and joint commissioning of shared outcomes is enabled to maximize the value to the public purse.

Degree or equivalent level qualification or experience. Practicing Solicitor with a minimum of  8 years post qualification experience or relevant alternative qualification or experience. Some experience to have been undertaken at a senior level. 5 Years experience in Legal Practice or Business Management. Demonstrable experience of commercial background in a legal context preferably within a traded service. A recognized management qualification or equivalent experience. Understanding and experience of client services and development. Successful implementation of effective outcomes in a cost effective manner and ensuring value for money and client satisfaction. Experience of implementing organisational goals and objectives in a complex environment. Significant successful experience of having worked effectively at operational management level. Ability to foster and champion innovation, leading to the successful commissioning of innovative best in class services, further enhancing the organizations reputation. Excellent communication skills with a high level of influencing and persuasive skills across a diverse organisation. Ability to think, plan and act strategically. Strong manager and corporate player who is also resilient, robust and is committed to the highest professional standards. Probity, credibility that engages and commands the confidence of senior leaders, staff and stakeholders