Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council - Director of Law & Governance (Monitoring Officer)

Director of Law & Governance (Monitoring Officer)

Salary: £146,572

BCP Council is changing the game. We’re bold, ambitious and driving a refreshed vision under our newly appointed Chief Executive, for one of the UK’s most exciting regions that’s packed with potential. With three vibrant towns, over 400,000 residents and 15,500 businesses, our place is full of energy, opportunity and momentum. As an established unitary Council seven years on from LGR, we’re making a name for ourself as a modern, transparent and accountable council that’s not afraid of meeting challenges head on. And now, we’re looking for a strategic legal and governance leader who can match that ambition.

As our Director of Law & Governance & Monitoring Officer, you will be the council’s ethical compass, governance leader and trusted legal adviser. You will ensure we operate lawfully, transparently and with the highest standards of integrity, while enabling modern, efficient democratic decision-making that supports our corporate ambitions.

You will deliver strategic legal and governance guidance on major organisational decisions, regulatory developments and statutory obligations, ensuring the organisation remains resilient, compliant and positioned for future opportunities. You will also hold the Monitoring Officer statutory role, oversee the Council’s Constitution, continually strengthening our governance framework to support effective, transparent and efficient decision making.

Who We’re Looking For

You may bring post‑qualification experience as a solicitor or barrister, but this isn’t essential. We also welcome candidates with senior governance experience and a strong understanding of local government law, democratic processes, and regulatory frameworks. You’ll have a proven ability to lead complex services, shape culture, and drive strategic change. With BCP Council’s uniquely diverse political landscape, you’ll need to navigate complex governance arrangements confidently and build effective relationships across multiple political groups.

If you’re excited by big challenges, motivated by public value and ready to make a visible impact in one of the most dynamic areas in the UK, we’d love to hear from you.

For further information, please visit https://www.leadatbcp.co.uk

For a confidential conversation about the role please contact:

• Rachael Morris on 07840 711217 or email: rachael.morris@penna.com

Closing date: Sunday 8^th March 2026 at 23:59

How to Apply

1. Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”
2. Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.
3. Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.
4. Please ensure that the file name of your CV and supporting statement includes your full name.
5. Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.
6. If you have a long-term health condition or disability and would like your application to be considered in accordance with a Disability Confident Scheme, please email: execapplications@penna.com, to inform the Penna team.