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- Tasks: Lead research services across EMEA, managing teams and stakeholders effectively.
- Company: Join a prestigious global law firm with a strong reputation in the legal sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £130,000 – £160,000 and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Drive innovation in research services while collaborating with international teams.
- Qualifications: Seven years in research services, four in a supervisory role; legal background preferred.
- Other info: Hands-on leadership role with direct reports across multiple locations.
The predicted salary is between 130000 - 160000 £ per year.
We’re working with a global law firm that’s looking to bring in a Director of Research Services to lead operations across their EMEA offices. The role is based in London and will suit someone who enjoys driving high standards across teams, managing international stakeholders, and thinking practically about how research services can better support the business.
The right person will already be operating at the Director level, or be a senior leader ready to take that next step. You’ll need at least seven years of experience in research services and four years in a supervisory role. A background in legal or professional services is ideal, and a Master’s in Library or Information Science (or equivalent) is preferred.
This is a hands-on leadership role, overseeing a team with direct reports in multiple locations. You’ll need to be comfortable managing across time zones, navigating competing priorities, and working closely with partners and senior staff—often when they’re under pressure. You’ll also play a key role in promoting smarter use of research platforms, analytics, and workflow tools, and collaborating with global teams on innovation initiatives.
The firm is offering a salary of £130,000 – £160,000 depending on experience.
If this sounds like a good fit, feel free to get in touch—I’d be happy to talk it through in more detail.
Contact Detail:
Pure Search Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Research Services
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the legal and research services sectors. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues or mentors who can provide insights into the role and the firm.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in research services, especially within the legal sector. Being able to discuss current innovations and how they can be applied to improve operations will set you apart during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to demonstrate your leadership skills by sharing specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams across different locations. Highlight your experience in navigating time zone challenges and competing priorities.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the firm’s existing research platforms and tools. Understanding their current systems will allow you to propose tailored improvements and show that you're proactive about enhancing their research services.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Research Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in research services, particularly any leadership roles. Emphasise your ability to manage teams across different locations and your familiarity with legal or professional services.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, explain why you are the perfect fit for the Director of Research Services role. Discuss your experience in driving high standards and managing international stakeholders, and how you can contribute to the firm's goals.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your capability in research services. Include examples of how you've improved processes or led successful projects, especially in a supervisory capacity.
Highlight Your Educational Background: If you have a Master’s in Library or Information Science (or equivalent), make sure to mention it prominently. This is a preferred qualification for the role, so it should be clearly visible in your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pure Search
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a candidate for the Director of Research Services, it's crucial to highlight your leadership experience. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams, especially in a supervisory role, and discuss how you’ve driven high standards in previous positions.
✨Demonstrate Your Understanding of Research Services
Make sure to articulate your knowledge of research services, particularly within the legal or professional services sector. Be ready to discuss how you can enhance the use of research platforms and analytics to support business objectives.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Management Scenarios
Given the role involves managing international stakeholders, prepare for questions about how you handle competing priorities and navigate time zone challenges. Share examples of past experiences where you successfully collaborated with senior staff under pressure.
✨Emphasise Innovation and Collaboration
The firm values innovation, so be prepared to discuss any initiatives you've led that involved collaboration with global teams. Highlight your ability to promote smarter use of tools and workflows, and how you can contribute to ongoing innovation efforts.
