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- Tasks: Lead a legal team providing expert advice on public safety regulations and high-profile cases.
- Company: Join the SIA, a key regulator in the private security industry.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public safety while leading a talented legal team.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in legal advisory roles within public sector or regulatory contexts.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to shape the future of security regulation in the UK.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: London / Manchester, hybrid working available.
The SIA exists to protect the public through effective regulation of the private security industry. We are a high performing regulator, working collaboratively with industry, enforcement agencies, Government, and the devolved administrations in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
We are operating at a time of change and increased public interest in us and our work. Last year Parliament passed new legislation which named the SIA as the new, independent, Martyn's Law regulator; an important and substantial role that will raise the standards of preparedness and protective security across the UK.
As Deputy Director of Legal Services, you will lead the legal services team to deliver high quality legal advice across the full range of SIA activity spanning criminal prosecutions; regulatory appeals and challenges; judicial review and inquests; commercial contracts; data protection; corporate governance matters; risk management; and regulatory policy matters. As the most senior legal advisor to the SIA, you will also be required to provide legal leadership on our most high profile and sensitive cases, ensuring high risk matters are handled soundly.
As our remit and work on Martyn's Law develops over the next 3-5 years, you will develop the work and capability of the legal team in support of the new civil regulatory regime, horizon scanning to anticipate changes to our statutory legal obligations and those of the wider private security industry. Your provision of expert, risk-based, qualitative legal advice to a range of internal clients (including the SIA Board, Chair and Chief Executive) will be key to organisational performance and impact, and you will need to build and lead the expertise in the team to support this.
We are looking for a Head of Legal Services with a strong track record of providing authoritative expert legal advice in a UK public sector or regulatory context. Comfortable moving between strategic thinking and technical detail across a range of legal subject areas, your extensive experience of leading teams in a law firm or in house environment will be coupled with accomplished communication and influencing capability. Above all, you will be an authentic, strategic and collaborative leader with the capability to take our already good service levels to the next level while supporting an engaged and talented team at a time of transition and change.
This is both an exceptional career opportunity and an exciting time to be part of the SIA. If you have the necessary skills, expertise, and experience, share our passion for making a real difference to public safety and will embrace our values and culture, we look forward to hearing from you.
To find out how you join us on our exciting journey, click Apply.
For an informal discussion about the role, contact our recruitment partners, GatenbySanderson: Russell Brandon at russell.brandon@gatenbysanderson.com
Closing date: 12 noon, Friday 13 February 2026.
Deputy Director of Legal Services in London employer: GatenbySanderson
Contact Detail:
GatenbySanderson Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Director of Legal Services in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who might have insights into the SIA or similar organisations. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the SIA’s recent activities and challenges, especially around Martyn's Law. Show us you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about the impact of the work we do.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate how your experience aligns with the responsibilities of the Deputy Director of Legal Services. We want to hear how you can lead our legal team to new heights.
✨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 us you’re serious about joining our team at the SIA.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director of Legal Services in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your experience aligns with the Deputy Director of Legal Services role. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a senior legal advisor, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership capabilities. Share examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, especially in a regulatory context.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements stand out!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application directly through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at GatenbySanderson
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the key legal areas mentioned in the job description, like criminal prosecutions and regulatory appeals. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just familiar with them but can also provide valuable insights.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Deputy Director, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, especially in high-pressure situations. This will help illustrate your ability to guide the legal services team effectively.
✨Understand the SIA's Role
Familiarise yourself with the SIA's mission and recent changes, like Martyn's Law. Showing that you understand the organisation's context and challenges will highlight your genuine interest and commitment to contributing positively to public safety.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the SIA's future direction and how the legal team fits into that vision. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role aligns with your career goals.
