At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead compliance and governance in a dynamic law firm, shaping policies and frameworks.
- Company: Innovative law firm at the forefront of legal services and digital innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £100,000, bonus, hybrid working, and professional development.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth in a supportive and evolving environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on compliance and risk culture in a growing business.
- Qualifications: Qualified lawyer with compliance experience or a compliance professional from a legal background.
The predicted salary is between 69300 - 84700 £ per year.
Up to £100,000 dependent on experience Plus Bonus & Benefits
Yorkshire (Hybrid and Potentially Remote)
Haggerty Jaques is delighted to be instructed on an exclusive basis to recruit a Head of Compliance for this innovative law firm. Operating at the intersection of legal services, risk management and digital innovation, the business supports a large and diverse client base across the UK. As it continues to scale, there is a clear focus on strengthening governance, enhancing operational discipline and ensuring a robust, forward-looking compliance framework.
Reporting directly to the Director of Legal Services, you will take ownership of the compliance and professional standards function - hands-on initially but having a greater strategic focus as the business evolves.
The Role
- Lead and shape the organisation’s approach to legal compliance, risk, and governance, ensuring alignment with a complex and evolving regulatory landscape.
- Set the strategic direction for compliance and professional standards.
- Develop and maintain policies, procedures and guidance.
- Oversee compliance monitoring, audit frameworks and reporting.
- Drive a strong risk culture and regulatory adherence.
- Own the Risk Register and wider risk management processes.
- Manage regulatory obligations (including SRA compliance, breach reporting and PI claims).
- Oversee complaints handling and conflicts processes.
- Support training and development initiatives alongside L&D.
- Lead and develop the Professional Standards team.
The Ideal Candidate
This role would suit either:
- A current compliance professional who previously qualified and ideally practised as a lawyer and has been doing a similar job already for a law firm.
- A qualified lawyer with some experience of legal compliance, governance or regulatory law, who is keen to move into a specialist compliance role and is (over time) happy to hone their expertise on the job.
Key qualifications include:
- An understanding of regulatory frameworks and governance.
- Experience of designing or operating compliance frameworks, audit or risk programmes.
- The ability to influence and engage senior stakeholders.
- A commercial, pragmatic and solutions-focused mindset.
- Confidence operating in a growing, evolving business environment.
- The ability to communicate complex issues in a clear and accessible way.
- Previous team leadership experience (beneficial but not essential).
This is a genuinely exciting opportunity to lead and develop a compliance function within a business that is doing things differently. You will play a key role in:
- Embedding a strong compliance and risk culture.
- Supporting the organisation through its next phase of growth.
- Influencing the quality, governance and reputation of the wider business.
The successful candidate would have an office base within Yorkshire. The business operates a hybrid working model but there is also potential for the successful candidate to work remotely for the majority of the time, with more occasional office presence once they are properly embedded within the business.
Haggerty Jaques is exclusively retained by the business and any agency or direct candidate applications or enquiries will be forwarded to Haggerty Jaques for consideration.
Please note that Haggerty Jaques only advertises vacancies through established legal and professional recruitment channels.
We’re Hiring: Head of Ethics and Compliance employer: Haggerty Jaques
Haggerty Jaques is an exceptional employer for early-career lawyers seeking to develop their expertise in a supportive and dynamic in-house environment. With a focus on flexible hybrid working, competitive salaries, and a strong benefits package, employees can enjoy a healthy work-life balance while gaining exposure to a variety of legal matters alongside experienced colleagues. This role offers a unique opportunity to build a well-rounded career in law, making it an attractive choice for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the North East.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land We’re Hiring: Head of Ethics and Compliance
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Haggerty Jaques, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace We’re Hiring: Head of Ethics and Compliance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Haggerty Jaques, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Haggerty Jaques and the specific role of We’re Hiring: Head of Ethics and Compliance. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Haggerty Jaques’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Haggerty Jaques
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Haggerty Jaques.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Haggerty Jaques.
