At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead data protection advice and manage client relationships in a dynamic legal environment.
- Company: Birketts, a top UK law firm with a strong commitment to community and diversity.
- Benefits: Flexible work environment, 25 days holiday, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a friendly team and shape the future of data law while making a positive impact.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with 10+ years PQE in data law and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Be part of a firm ranked 5th best to work at in 2024.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Birketts is a full service, UK Top 50 law firm. With a heritage spanning 160 years, we have more than 700 lawyers and legal professionals based in Bristol, Cambridge, Chelmsford, Ipswich, London, Norwich and Sevenoaks. We advise businesses, government and public sector organisations and individuals in the UK and internationally across four principal practice groups: Real Estate, Corporate Services, Dispute Resolution and Private Client.
We are defined by our Next Level Law proposition. We work with our clients as a proactive partner, horizon scanning and thinking ahead to the changes, challenges or opportunities that they may face. Next Level Law is also applied to our people. Our collegiate culture means everyone is encouraged to achieve their next level in everything they do.
RollOnFriday recently ranked us as the 5th best law firm to work at in 2024. With our ambition to succeed, comes a strong desire to make a positive contribution to the communities we serve, and we are committed to delivering the objectives set out in our ESG strategy. Diversity plays an integral part in all that we do, with female partners comprising 40% of our partnership.
The Data Team sits within the six-Partner Commercial & Technology group. While the team currently focuses on data protection matters (both standalone and as part of wider transactions) we see this as a pivotal role for the right candidate to collaborate with our existing Commercial & Technology Partners in building a market-leading data practice.
In addition to strengthening the firm's data protection and UK GDPR capabilities, this role offers the opportunity to develop a broader practice that supports the firm in areas such as data monetisation, cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence advisory services.
We are seeking a senior individual with the drive and commitment to help Birketts continue the growth and development of our firmwide data practice and become an integral member of the team. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated, proactive professional to join a successful and friendly team in any of our non-London offices, within a growing firm that enjoys an outstanding reputation.
Desirable:
- A demonstrable knowledge of Cybersecurity laws in the UK and EU
- Knowledge of AI regulation and a desire to drive Birketts' AI regulatory advice offering
- Familiarity with international deal structures and multi-jurisdictional issues.
- Existing client relationships and a potential following.
As a Partner, we would also expect you to have experience of managing client relationships, and to have in depth knowledge of the region (or a dedicated approach to embedding your practice into the region).
A Qualified solicitor in England & Wales with 10+ years PQE in data law. Demonstrable experience in the following key areas:
- Leadership
- Lead and manage end-to-end data protection advice, including due diligence, drafting, negotiation, and completion.
- Advise clients on legal risks, deal structures, and strategic implications.
- Client Relationship Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, and other stakeholders across the Birketts business
- Act as a trusted advisor, delivering commercially focused legal solutions.
- Legal Drafting & Negotiation
- Draft and negotiate complex legal advice
- Support the wider team with data protection clauses in wider transactions
- Ensure all documentation complies with relevant laws and regulations.
- Team Development
- Supervise and mentor junior solicitors and trainees.
- Provide technical guidance and contribute to internal training initiatives.
- Business Development
- Identify and pursue new business opportunities.
- Support marketing efforts, including thought leadership, networking, and client pitches.
- Regulatory & Compliance
- Stay abreast of changes in corporate law and regulatory frameworks.
- Ensure all transactions meet legal and ethical standards.
At Birketts, our culture is driven by ambition and a commitment to positively impact all the communities we serve. We are dedicated to the success, development, and wellbeing of our colleagues, helping them achieve their goals and seize the opportunities that come with our growth. Alongside a flexible and inclusive work environment, we offer the following core benefits: 25 days holiday (FTE) plus
Legal Director employer: Birketts
Contact Detail:
Birketts Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the legal field, especially those who work in data protection. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare to discuss your knowledge of cybersecurity laws and AI regulations during interviews. Bring examples of how you've tackled complex legal issues in the past to demonstrate your value.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. Focus on articulating your leadership experience and client relationship management skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining Birketts and being part of our Next Level Law culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Legal Director role. Highlight your experience in data protection, cybersecurity, and AI regulation, as these are key areas for us at Birketts.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We’re looking for someone who can lead and mentor others. Be sure to include examples of how you've managed teams or projects in your previous roles, as this will really stand out to us.
Demonstrate Client Relationship Management: Since building strong client relationships is crucial, share specific instances where you’ve successfully managed client expectations or developed new business opportunities. This will show us you’re the right fit!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with Birketts.
How to prepare for a job interview at Birketts
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of data protection laws, especially UK GDPR and cybersecurity regulations. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just a candidate, but a potential leader in the field.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully managed client relationships or led teams. Highlighting your experience in legal drafting and negotiation will demonstrate your capability to handle complex legal matters.
✨Be a Team Player
Birketts values collaboration, so be ready to discuss how you've worked with others in previous roles. Share instances where you've mentored junior solicitors or contributed to team development, as this aligns with their culture of growth.
✨Think Business Development
Come prepared with ideas on how you can help Birketts grow its data practice. Whether it's through networking, thought leadership, or identifying new business opportunities, showing your proactive approach will set you apart from other candidates.