Manchester is a city with momentum. We are ambitious, globally recognised and continually evolving—shaping a thriving, inclusive and well‑connected place for over half a million residents. To help us deliver on these ambitions, we are looking for an outstanding Head of Legal, People Place & Regulation to join one of the most dynamic and high‑profile local authority legal teams in the UK.

Why join Manchester Legal Services?

Our Legal and Democratic Services function is one of the largest in-house teams in the country. We operate a shared service with Salford City Council and deliver specialist work for Rochdale Borough Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority—putting you at the heart of England’s first and biggest devolved region. Our 240+ strong legal workforce is recognised for its professionalism, passion and commitment. Our lawyers work on complex, nationally significant initiatives that shape the lives of residents and visitors every day. This role offers a rare opportunity to lead across a broad, high-performing portfolio and contribute to some of the most exciting legal, policy and regeneration work happening anywhere in the UK.

About the role

As Head of Legal, People Place & Regulation, you will provide leadership across five specialist teams—Community, Employment, Housing & Neighbour Nuisance, Litigation, and Regulatory & Enforcement. Reporting to the Assistant Director, you will play a key role in operational leadership, deputising as required and ensuring the delivery of high‑quality, insightful and solutions‑focused legal services.

You will also take a lead on cross‑cutting legal initiatives, oversee risk and LEXCEL compliance, support income and performance management, and carry a personal caseload of complex and sensitive matters.

This is a pivotal leadership role in a fast-moving, politically dynamic environment where your work will influence major decisions and real‑world outcomes for Manchester, Salford and our wider partners.

What we’re looking for

We’re seeking an exceptional legal leader—credible, collaborative and forward‑thinking. Someone who can bring people with them, inspire confidence, and deliver outstanding results across a large and varied portfolio.

You will bring:

• Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive status (with litigation rights).
• Significant experience managing complex legal work in a large, multifaceted organisation.
• Proven ability to build strong, trusted client relationships, including on sensitive and high‑profile matters.
• Demonstrable experience within at least two of the following areas; Community (Adult Social Care & Education), Employment, Housing, Litigation and Regulatory & Enforcement
• Strong strategic thinking, political awareness and the ability to influence at senior level.
• A track record of leading teams, driving performance, and delivering high‑quality legal outcomes.
• Understanding of the wider national policy landscape for local government.

What we offer

You’ll join an accredited service that values innovation, professional development and flexible working. Benefits include:

• Competitive salary with annual pay progression
• Hybrid working
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• 26 days’ annual leave (rising to 31 after five years)
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
• A wealth of additional staff benefits and development opportunities

Join us - and help shape the legal foundations of a world‑class city.

For a confidential discussion contact: andrew.barton@penna.com or 07922 386 432