Divisional Solicitor - Planning and Regulatory

Divisional Solicitor - Planning and Regulatory

There is currently one full‑time permanent post.

As Protestants and males are currently known to be under‑represented in this job group in Belfast City Council, applications from these groups would be particularly welcome.

And as young people (people under the age of 35), people with a disability and people from minority ethnic communities are currently under‑represented in Belfast City Council, applications from these groups would also be particularly welcome.

As part of our commitment to equality of opportunity we offer a Guaranteed Interview Scheme (GIS) for disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.

Belfast City Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer and applications for employment are considered strictly on the basis of merit.

In the role, you will be responsible to the City Solicitor – Director of Legal and Civic Services for heading up one of the four divisions within the service.

• Planning & Regulatory
• Property
• Litigation
• Commercial

You will provide professional legal services and advice in relation to an assigned caseload within your area of functional responsibility.

You will deputise for the City Solicitor – Director of Legal and Civic Services.

You will provide accurate, timely and professional advice on legal matters (including the interpretation of legislation) to senior officers of the council, draft reports and attend Standing Committees.

You will contribute to the corporate management of the council by participation in corporate groups and activities.

You will provide supervision and support to solicitors and assigned staff as appropriate.

The Legal and Civic Services Department provides expert legal, governance, and civic support to the council and this includes:

• Delivering a full range of legal services to ensure compliance with statutory obligations.
• Overseeing corporate governance arrangements to uphold transparency and accountability.
• Supporting elected members and civic dignitaries in fulfilling their roles.
• Managing the Registrar’s Office, responsible for registering births, deaths, marriages, and civil partnerships.
• Overseeing Facilities Management to maintain and enhance council properties.