Head of Legal & Compliance
Head of Legal & Compliance

Head of Legal & Compliance

Full-Time 48000 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a legal team, shape compliance strategies, and advise senior stakeholders.
  • Company: Dynamic organisation focused on regulatory governance and sustainable growth.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a chance to influence company strategy.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a key leadership role while shaping the future of compliance.
  • Qualifications: Legally qualified with significant experience in legal and compliance roles.
  • Other info: Onsite work in Finchley, North London, with a focus on team mentorship.

The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.

We are seeking a strategically minded Head of Legal & Compliance to lead our legal function and ensure the highest standards of regulatory governance across the organisation. This is a key leadership role, responsible for shaping our legal strategy, strengthening compliance frameworks, and partnering with senior stakeholders to support sustainable growth.

Location: 3-4 days per week onsite in Finchley, North London

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead a small legal team who manage all legal matters across the business, providing expert, commercially focused advice.
  • Own and develop the company's compliance programme, ensuring alignment with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.
  • Advise the executive team and Board on legal risks, governance issues, and emerging regulatory developments.
  • Oversee contract drafting, negotiation, and review across all departments.
  • Manage data protection, privacy, and risk management policies.
  • Develop and deliver compliance training and awareness initiatives.
  • Oversee relationships with external counsel and regulators.
  • Lead and mentor the legal & compliance team (or build the function where required).
About You
  • Legally qualified solicitor or barrister with a valid professional qualification.
  • Significant post-qualification experience (PQE) within a relevant sector or comparable in-house role.
  • Strong knowledge of regulatory and compliance frameworks.
  • Demonstrated ability to balance legal risk with commercial pragmatism.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder-management skills, with the ability to influence at executive level.
  • Proven experience building or leading a legal or compliance function.
  • High integrity, sound judgement, and a proactive mindset.

Seniority level: Mid-Senior level

Employment type: Full-time

Job function: Legal

Industries: Legal Services, Business Consulting and Services, and Law Practice

Head of Legal & Compliance employer: Cactus Search

As a leading employer in the legal services sector, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. Located in Finchley, North London, we offer competitive benefits, professional development opportunities, and a supportive environment where your expertise in legal and compliance can make a significant impact on our organisation's growth and governance. Join us to be part of a dynamic team that values integrity, innovation, and strategic thinking.
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Contact Detail:

Cactus Search Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Legal & Compliance

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal and compliance sectors. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there. Remember, it’s all about who you know!

✨Tip Number 2

Showcase your expertise! Create a personal brand on platforms like LinkedIn. Share insights on legal trends, compliance challenges, or case studies. This not only highlights your knowledge but also attracts attention from recruiters.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for interviews by understanding the company’s legal landscape. Research their compliance programmes and be ready to discuss how you can enhance them. Tailor your approach to show you’re the perfect fit for their needs.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got some fantastic opportunities waiting for you. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm and commitment to joining our team.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Legal & Compliance

Legal Expertise
Regulatory Knowledge
Compliance Framework Development
Contract Drafting and Negotiation
Data Protection Management
Risk Management
Stakeholder Management
Leadership and Team Management
Communication Skills
Commercial Awareness
Judgement and Integrity
Training and Development
Strategic Thinking

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Legal & Compliance role. Highlight your leadership experience, compliance knowledge, and any relevant legal qualifications to catch our eye!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've led legal teams or managed compliance programmes in the past.

Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a key player in our organisation, strong communication is essential. Make sure your application showcases your ability to convey complex legal concepts clearly and effectively, especially when addressing senior stakeholders.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!

How to prepare for a job interview at Cactus Search

✨Know Your Legal Landscape

Before the interview, brush up on the latest regulatory developments and compliance frameworks relevant to the role. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your proactive approach to staying informed in a constantly evolving field.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a legal team or built a compliance function in the past. Highlight your ability to mentor and develop others, as this is crucial for the Head of Legal & Compliance position.

✨Communicate with Confidence

Practice articulating complex legal concepts in a clear and concise manner. Since you'll be advising senior stakeholders, being able to communicate effectively at an executive level is key. Consider doing mock interviews to refine your delivery.

✨Align with Company Values

Research StudySmarter's mission and values, and think about how your legal strategy can support sustainable growth. Be ready to discuss how you can align the compliance programme with the company's goals, showcasing your strategic mindset.

Head of Legal & Compliance
Cactus Search
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