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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 benefit of Scotland.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Join a pivotal role ensuring legal compliance and risk management in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor with extensive experience in legal roles and governance.
- Other info: Permanent position with a starting salary of £79,608, increasing after probation.
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 Crown Estate Scotland's current legal frameworks and risk management policies. Understanding their specific challenges and objectives will allow you to tailor your discussions during interviews and demonstrate your strategic thinking.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences in managing multidisciplinary teams. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully implemented governance and risk management strategies, as this will be crucial for the Head of Legal & Risk position.
✨Tip Number 4
Research recent developments in legal compliance and risk management within the public sector. Being knowledgeable about current trends and best practices will not only enhance your application but also show your commitment to staying informed in this dynamic field.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Legal & Risk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure your cover letter specifically addresses the requirements of the Head of Legal & Risk position. Highlight your experience in governance, risk management, and legal advice, and explain how these align with the role's responsibilities.
Showcase Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise your substantial experience in senior legal roles, particularly within public sector and commercial environments. Include specific examples of your achievements in managing multidisciplinary teams and providing legal advice on complex issues.
Demonstrate Leadership Skills: Clearly outline your leadership experience in both legal and risk management contexts. Provide examples of how you have fostered best practices and promoted a culture of compliance and governance in previous roles.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread your cover letter and CV. Ensure there are no grammatical errors or typos, as attention to detail is crucial for a role that involves legal documentation and compliance.
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 the 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.
