Location
222 Upper St, London

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£69,660 per annum

About the Role
Following a recent reorganisation, exciting opportunities have arisen within Legal Services for a dedicated, enthusiastic Lead Planning S106 Lawyer. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and have a passion for public service, this could be your next career step. You will join a high-performing in-house legal team and assist in leading the delivery of services within your area of responsibility, in accordance with the Council’s policies, procedures, and performance framework to achieve service and corporate objectives. You will provide expert legal advice on complex matters and governance related to planning obligations (S106 agreements).

Duties include:
- Reporting to the Head of Legal on performance levels and action plans for improvement
- Providing appropriate, intelligent, relevant, and timely advice to senior officers and elected members
- Collaborating with client departments through regular liaison meetings and timely resolution of service delivery issues
- Evaluating information from client departments, forward plans, and legislative changes to guide service delivery
- Contributing to budget and target setting and supporting effective financial management
- Considering innovative ways to deliver high-quality, value-for-money services aligned with the Council’s corporate plan
- Deputising for the Head of Legal and acting as an advocate on behalf of the Council when appropriate
- Scrutinising, commenting on, and preparing legal implications for reports to the Council and its committees
- Attending relevant committees, sub-committees, and other meetings to provide legal advice
- Working collaboratively within Law and Governance and with Senior Council Managers and Members
- Carrying out other duties within Law and Governance commensurate with the post’s grading as directed

Working for Our Organisation
You will be part of the legal services department managing a team dealing with all aspects of disrepair law, associated advice, and disputes. Islington Council is committed to challenging inequality and creating a more equal borough where everyone has an equal chance to thrive. Our values—collaborative, ambitious, resourceful, and empowering (CARE)—guide everything we do and reflect our commitment to public service.

Benefits
- Up to 31 days leave per year, increasing to 36 days after five years of local government service
- Flexible working arrangements and a 35-hour working week to support work-life balance
- Learning and development opportunities to maximise your potential
- Competitive pay with a commitment to paying all staff at least the London Living Wage
- Excellent local government pension scheme
- Cycle to Work scheme and discounted gym memberships
- Local discounts from restaurants, shops, health and beauty therapists, and more

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We are dedicated to creating an inclusive and equitable workforce where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or victimisation on any protected grounds. We actively monitor and evaluate our practices to promote diversity and inclusion at all levels of the organisation. Every employee plays a role in making Islington Council a truly inclusive workplace by living our CARE values and embedding equality, equity, diversity, and inclusion principles in their work.

Pre-Employment Checks
Any offer of employment is subject to successful completion of required pre-employment checks which may include proof of address, right to work in the UK, overseas criminal record check (if applicable), satisfactory references, occupational health clearance, evidence of professional qualifications or registrations, and DBS check at the appropriate level (if applicable).

Safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. Some posts require a Disclosure and Barring Service check in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020.

Disability Confident Scheme
Islington Council operates a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria and provides support for reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and career.

Experience
Proven experience as a strategic legal professional, ideally with expertise in planning obligations (S106 agreements) and public sector legal services. Experience in providing expert legal advice on complex matters and governance is essential. Demonstrated ability to lead service delivery and work collaboratively with senior officers and elected members.

About You
You are dynamic, strategic, and passionate about public service. You thrive in a fast-paced environment and are committed to delivering high-quality, value-for-money services. You work collaboratively and corporately within teams and with senior stakeholders. You embody the Council’s CARE values: collaborative, ambitious, resourceful, and empowering.

Qualifications
Qualified solicitor or equivalent legal qualification with relevant experience in planning law and local government legal services. Commitment to continuous professional development and upholding professional standards.