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- Tasks: Lead and develop the Legal and Risk function at Crown Estate Scotland.
- Company: Crown Estate Scotland manages land and resources sustainably for the public good.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Join a pivotal role that shapes legal compliance and risk management in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor with extensive experience in legal roles and governance.
- Other info: Application deadline is 22nd September 2025; cover letter and CV required.
The predicted salary is between 79000 - 82000 £ per year.
Job purpose
The Head of Legal & Risk will lead, manage and develop a newly established Legal and Risk function for Crown Estate Scotland (CES). The role is pivotal in ensuring that CES adheres to its legal obligations and risk management frameworks plus other associated matters. The position will provide strategic leadership in all legal matters including the oversight of effective legal advice from external legal advisers and oversee the development and implementation of CES’s risk management policy, processes and procedures.
Main tasks
- Develop and implement a strategic framework and delivery plan for the Legal and Risk function.
- Lead and foster the development of delivering best practice approaches across CES when dealing with legal advice and compliance requirements and facilitating risk management.
- Coordinate the provision and procurement of expert legal advice in relation to the exercise of CES’s functions, including contributing to the overall strategic and policy direction of CES.
- Oversee the legal governance framework, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and standards of best practice.
- Oversee and contribute to the development and maintenance of the CES’s risk management framework, ensuring that risks are identified, assessed, and managed effectively.
- Lead the provision of legal advice, managing arrangements with external legal providers to ensure efficient and effective legal services.
- Promote a culture of good legal compliance and governance and risk management across CES.
- Provide legal challenge to legal advisers especially regarding the drafting of leases and agreements
- To support the teams to structure and develop legal agreements that deliver value and structure
Essential
- Qualified Solicitor with a current practising certificate and extensive experience working in a relevant area.
- Substantial experience in a senior legal role, ideally within a public sector and commercial environment.
- Demonstrable experience in governance and risk management at a strategic level.
- Proven track record of leading and managing multidisciplinary teams.
- Background in participating in risk management approaches.
- Demonstrable experience in providing legal advice on complex property, commercial and public legal issues.
- Experience in managing external legal providers and negotiating legal contracts.
- Able to work independently but able to collaborate and to provide support to colleagues.
- Policy writing experience
- Investigation and analytical experience – ability to review and analyse evidence and report on it.
Job type: Permanent
Pay: It is a Grade G starting salary £79,608 going up a pay point to £82,020 after 6 months successful probation.
Application: Cover letter and CV required for application
Application deadline: 22nd September 2025
Head of Legal & Risk employer: Allen Lane
Contact Detail:
Allen Lane Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Legal & Risk
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the legal and risk management sectors, especially those who have experience in public sector roles. Attend relevant industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and mentors who can provide insights into the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific legal frameworks and risk management policies that govern Crown Estate Scotland. Understanding these will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and organisation.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences in managing multidisciplinary teams. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully implemented governance and risk management strategies in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the current challenges and opportunities facing Crown Estate Scotland. Being knowledgeable about their recent projects and strategic goals will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how you can contribute to their success.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Legal & Risk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your cover letter specifically for the Head of Legal & Risk position. Highlight your relevant experience in legal and risk management, and demonstrate how your background aligns with the strategic goals of Crown Estate Scotland.
Showcase Leadership Experience: In your CV, emphasise your leadership roles and any experience managing multidisciplinary teams. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully led legal functions or risk management initiatives in previous positions.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your qualifications, including your status as a qualified solicitor with a current practising certificate. Mention any additional certifications or training related to governance and risk management that would strengthen your application.
Demonstrate Analytical Skills: Include examples in your CV or cover letter that showcase your investigation and analytical skills. Discuss instances where you have reviewed complex legal issues or contributed to policy writing, as these are crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Allen Lane
✨Showcase Your Legal Expertise
As the Head of Legal & Risk, it's crucial to demonstrate your extensive legal knowledge and experience. Be prepared to discuss specific cases where you've provided legal advice on complex issues, particularly in public sector and commercial environments.
✨Highlight Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership capabilities. Share examples of how you've successfully led multidisciplinary teams and fostered a culture of compliance and risk management in previous positions.
✨Discuss Your Strategic Vision
Crown Estate Scotland is looking for someone who can develop and implement a strategic framework for their Legal and Risk function. Be ready to articulate your vision for this role and how you would approach creating effective policies and procedures.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about past experiences where you've had to navigate legal challenges or manage risks, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
