Negotiable
Overview
Are you a skilled and motivated lawyer looking to broaden your legal horizons in a dynamic and impactful public sector environment? We have an exciting opportunity for a
Senior Lawyer
to join our
Employment and General Legal Team , where your expertise will help shape the legal landscape of local government.This is a unique opportunity to work at the heart of local government, advising on a wide variety of legal matters that directly affect our communities and services. You’ll be part of a supportive and forward-thinking team, providing high-quality legal advice and representation across a broad spectrum of work.
Working hours : 35 hours per week
Contract type : Permanent, Full Time
Closing date : 15 October 2025
Interview method : in person
Responsibilities
Public Inquiries and Coroner’s Inquests: Preparing and advising on complex legal matters and documentation.
Education Law: Advising and training Independent Education Boards (IEBs) and panels on school admissions and exclusions appeals.
Governance and Decision-Making: Drafting and reviewing reports to Council, Committees, and Panels with potential legal implications.
Strategic Advice: Supporting Strategic Directors on delegated decision-making and governance issues.
Judicial Review: Providing instructions and legal support on matters subject to judicial scrutiny.
Regulatory and Civil Matters: Offering expert advice on Council Tax, market trading regulations, burial grounds, cemeteries, and landlord licensing.
You’ll also play a key role in delivering training to panels and boards, ensuring legal frameworks are clearly understood and applied.
Requirements and Qualifications
You must be a qualified solicitor, barrister, or Chartered Lawyer of the Institute of Legal Executives holding a current practising certificate.
Membership of Law Society, Bar Council or Chartered Institute of Legal Executives
Strong experience in public sector or local government law.
Excellent analytical and communication skills.
A proactive approach to problem-solving and legal risk management.
The ability to work collaboratively across departments and with senior stakeholders.
A passion for public service and making a tangible difference through your legal work.
Experience of Employment Law is desirable but not essential.
Additional Information
We’re the local council for one of the UK’s most vibrant and diverse cities. Working for Manchester isn’t just a job – it’s an opportunity to contribute to a city that leads change and transforms lives.
Our Manchester Is Our Vision For a Fairer, Greener, And Healthier City guides our approach and behaviours, including listening, collaboration, fairness, ownership, and pride in Manchester.
Benefits
Generous holiday allowance — up to 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing to 31 days after five years of service; option to purchase up to two additional weeks.
Public sector pension with life cover of three-times salary as a lump sum.
Enhanced parental and carers leave, and a range of discounts and perks (MCR+, phone contracts, cycle to work, flu jabs, eye tests, etc.).
Learning and development opportunities, including onboarding, workshops, training, apprenticeships and qualifications.
Good Employment Charter membership and ongoing health and wellbeing support.
Up to 3 days volunteering leave (pro-rata) in addition to existing benefits.
Inclusion and SupportWe are committed to creating an inclusive team and welcome applications from diverse backgrounds. We actively support adjustments during the interview process and provide accessibility tools on our careers page.
Pre-Employment and Right to WorkIn accordance with Home Office guidance, successful candidates must evidence their right to work in the UK before commencement. This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker sponsorship under Manchester City Council policy. Pre-employment checks may include: right to work evidence, references, qualifications, DBS check (where applicable), proof of residency (where required), police vetting, BPSS clearance, and driving licence (if required).
Contact and How to ApplyFor more information about the role or adjustments, email jobs@manchester.gov.uk. Ensure you read the role profile attached.
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Legal
Industries
Government ..... full job details .....
Negotiable