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- Tasks: Join the Board to shape the future of legal regulation and ensure high standards.
- Company: The Bar Standards Board, a key regulator for barristers in England and Wales.
- Benefits: Earn £10,000 per annum for just 2 days of work each month.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the legal profession and promote access to justice.
- Qualifications: Experience in higher education or professional pathways and board-level operations.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive environment with a commitment to equality of opportunity.
The predicted salary is between 10000 - 14000 £ per year.
The Bar Standards Board (BSB) is the regulator for barristers in England and Wales, responsible for regulating over 18,000 professionals. The BSB works with the profession, the justice system and the public to set and apply standards for qualification, training and practice, and to handle reports where concerns about conduct arise. We play a critical role in advancing the public interest in the legal services market, and our vision is to be a high-performing regulator that promotes high standards, equality, access to justice, and a culture of integrity across the profession.
At a time of sustained pressure on the legal sector alongside rapid technological, economic and societal change, we have a pivotal role to play in supporting the confidence of consumers and strengthening the culture and effectiveness of the Bar. This is an exciting time to join the BSB. Our Reform Programme is moving at pace to modernise our regulatory approach, strengthen operational performance and embed a more data-driven, risk-based model of regulation. At the same time, we are finalising our new five-year strategy, which will shape the BSB’s priorities to the end of the decade.
As a Board member, you will work closely with our Chair, fellow members and the executive team to ensure that the organisation delivers on its statutory objectives and strategic commitments. We are now seeking to appoint four new members to the Board: one Lay Board Member and three Barrister Members. All will play a vital role in ensuring that the BSB provides effective strategic leadership, strong governance and proportionate regulatory oversight.
For the Lay Board Member, we particularly welcome candidates with experience of higher education or professional qualification pathways leading to a licence to practise, alongside a record of operating at board level or equivalent in a complex organisation. You will bring strong analytical skills, sound judgement, and the ability to operate under public scrutiny, with a clear understanding of the distinction between governance and management.
Across all roles, we are looking for individuals who can think strategically, absorb complex information, and exercise independent judgement. You will be a credible and inclusive communicator, able to work collaboratively with a diverse non-executive Board and with external stakeholders including the Bar, the judiciary, government, academics, and the public. These roles demand integrity, resilience, diplomacy, and a commitment to the highest standards of public life and regulatory professionalism.
The Bar Standards Board aims to recruit a talented and diverse Board and values the breadth of background, skills and experience that candidates bring. We are committed to providing equality of opportunity for all applicants regardless of race, sex, disability, age, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, gender identity or any other protected characteristic.
For further information, including how to apply, please click the button below. If once you have read the candidate pack you have any questions then please contact our recruitment advisers at GatenbySanderson at barstandardsboard@gatenbysanderson.com
Closing date: 5pm, Friday 27 February 2026
Lay Board Member employer: Bar Standards Board
Contact Detail:
Bar Standards Board Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lay Board Member
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the legal sector, especially those connected to the Bar Standards Board. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by understanding the BSB's current challenges and reforms. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role, but that you’re ready to contribute to their mission of promoting high standards and integrity.
✨Tip Number 3
Be yourself! Authenticity goes a long way. When you’re in front of the panel, let your personality shine through. We want to see the real you and how you can fit into the diverse culture at the BSB.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at the BSB.
We think you need these skills to ace Lay Board Member
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role and the Bar Standards Board's mission. Tailor your application to show how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around governance and regulatory oversight.
Be Clear and Concise: When you're putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. Remember, they want to see your analytical skills and sound judgement, so make your points easy to digest.
Show Your Unique Perspective: As a Lay Board Member, your background is crucial. Highlight your experience in higher education or professional pathways, and how that gives you a unique viewpoint on the legal sector. They’re looking for diversity in thought, so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, if you have any questions after reading the candidate pack, reach out to our recruitment advisers!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bar Standards Board
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the role of a Lay Board Member at the Bar Standards Board. Familiarise yourself with their mission, values, and current challenges in the legal sector. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Given the emphasis on strong analytical skills for this position, prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully analysed complex information or made strategic decisions. Be ready to discuss how these skills can contribute to the BSB's objectives.
✨Demonstrate Your Governance Knowledge
Brush up on the differences between governance and management, as this is crucial for the role. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of effective governance practices and how they apply to regulatory oversight in a complex organisation like the BSB.
✨Communicate Inclusively and Collaboratively
As a Lay Board Member, you'll need to work with diverse stakeholders. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and inclusively. Think about how you can foster collaboration among board members and external parties, and be ready to share your approach during the interview.
