An excellent opportunity has arisen for a Chief Legal Officer to join Newcastle City Council and lead the legal service division. Newcastle upon Tyne is the regional capital of North East England. At the council we're driving forward change alongside our ambitious plans for the city. We've started to transform our services to deliver greater efficiencies, and now it's time for the next step.

That's why we've created a brand new role for a talented solicitor or barrister. You will be central to the growing success of a forward thinking council. You'll shape legal services, inspire your team and contribute to the strategic direction of the council.

As the council's monitoring officer you will have a key role in the effective delivery of organisational governance. You need a high degree of political acumen and expert knowledge of constitutional matters. You will also act as the council's deputy returning officer and make sure all elections, referenda and associated services are conducted in accordance with statutory requirements.

To succeed here, you'll need to be a dynamic and committed individual, with impressive leadership qualities. You will have a proven track record of achievement: the capacity to build strong relationships internally and with elected members as well as external partners; the ability to communicate a clear and compelling vision; and the capability to manage change and lead the delivery of excellent services.

For further information please contact Steve Evans, Director of Corporate Services on 0191 211 5200.

Closing date: 9 March 2012.

Interviews: Week commencing 9 April 2012.

To view further information and apply online please visit our website at this link or for an application pack by email  or phone 0191 211 5205.