Harlow District Council is hiring

Are you a skilled lawyer with commercial acumen ready to make a lasting impact in local government in one of the most important areas in the country?  If so, there couldn’t be a better time to join Harlow.

One of the original post-war New Towns, Harlow is poised yet again be the driving force transitioning one of the fastest growing areas in the country towards a bright future in a local government landscape that will see the current 15 Greater Essex authorities replaced by new Unitary Authorities and Mayoral Combined Authority.

Harlow Council is looking for an accomplished senior property lawyer who will support the Head of Legal Services and Director of Legal and Governance to ensure that Harlow achieves its ambition to transform the town and support its property portfolio  which will plays a crucial part in the council’s goals to secure its future as the modern, innovative anchor town at the heart of a prosperous West Essex.

The Role      

• To provide subject matter expertise to the Council on issues or matters which cut across the Commercial and Property Legal Team portfolio and, to line manage the qualified legal staff assigned to the Commercial and Property Legal Team from time to time.
• To act as lead legal officer on major commercial and residential or mixed use property development transactions, conducting or directing requisite legal formalities at each stage of the process.
• To act as lead legal officer on a range of key corporate contracts for services and supplies.
• To act as lead legal officer providing advice and transactional support to Harlow Council on risks, opportunities, rights and obligations arising in respect of its commercial arrangements and transactions including any of its alternative service delivery vehicles.

What we’re looking for

We’re seeking a qualified solicitor or lawyer with:

• In-depth knowledge and experience in dealing with a broad range of commercial property portfolio matters.
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to develop a high-performing team.
• Commercial awareness, resilience, and the ability to build trusted relationships.
• A broad understanding of local government law, especially related to governance, contracts and property.
• Experience advising committees and working with elected members.
• Ideally, you will have prior line management experience – but we welcome strong senior lawyers who are seeking their first managerial role.

Why Harlow?

Harlow is on a bold journey to become the most forward-thinking and impactful council in the country. Harlow is one of the fastest-growing areas in the UK, where major investment is transforming the town - with a new hospital, vibrant neighbourhoods, and a revitalised town centre on the horizon.  Our ambitious plan focuses on six transformational missions to improve housing, safety, jobs, and health for every resident, and we are delivering on those missions at pace. This is your chance to be part of a council that’s leading change, restoring pride, and shaping a better future for generations to come.

For an informal discussion about this role, please contact Angela Merry, Legal Practice Manager on 01279 446046

Harlow Council is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. We offer flexibility with purpose through our Dynamic Working approach. While office-based work is the norm, most full-time employees attend the workplace at least three days per week (pro rata).

We also support a range of flexible arrangements to help balance work and personal life and provide health and wellbeing initiatives and an employee assistance programme.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we guarantee an interview to disabled candidates who meet the Essential Criteria on the Employee Profile.

Closing date: 6 April 2026

For further information or to apply, please click on the 'Enquire/Apply' button below.