At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations for a global legal function, driving efficiency and innovation.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking organisation focused on legal, risk, and compliance excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on technology and data-driven decision-making.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping the future of legal operations on a global scale.
- Qualifications: Experience in legal operations and strong relationship management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 110000 £ per year.
Description
Great legal teams don't just give advice.
They operate efficiently, make smart commercial decisions, use technology well, and ensure knowledge and expertise are easy to access when they're needed most.
We're looking for a Director of Legal, Risk & Compliance (BRR) Operations to help shape exactly that.
This is a rare opportunity to influence how a global legal function operates across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Africa.
You'll bring together commercial thinking, operational excellence, supplier management and technology to create a more efficient, scalable and data-driven approach to legal, risk and compliance services.
Working within Business Reputation & Responsibility (BRR) Operations, you'll lead the strategy behind operations, knowledge management, technology and external supplier management.
From overseeing relationships with law firms and controlling external spend to improving processes and introducing smarter ways of working, you'll have a direct impact on how the function delivers value to the business.
You'll work closely with senior leaders across Legal, Risk, Compliance, Finance and Technology, helping to shape priorities, solve complex challenges and drive meaningful change.
What you'll do
You'll set the direction for operations across the function, ensuring the right processes, technology, data and supplier relationships are in place to support a high-performing function.
- Support the delivery of an operational strategy, including operating model design, process improvement and service delivery models.
- Managing relationships with law firms and external legal providers, ensuring strong performance, value and commercial outcomes.
- Overseeing external legal spend, budgeting and forecasting, while identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and control costs.
- Using reporting and analytics to identify trends, inform decision-making and support long-term planning.
- Driving the adoption of legal technology and AI solutions that improve productivity and enhance the user experience.
- Leading the BRR Knowledge Strategy, ensuring knowledge, templates and resources are accessible, relevant and easy to use.
- Building strong partnerships across Legal, Risk, Compliance and other business functions to deliver sustainable improvements.
- What you’ll bring
- Significant experience within operations, either in-house or supporting large legal functions.
- Strong expertise in managing law firms, supplier relationships and external legal spend.
- A track record of improving processes, introducing new ways of working and delivering operational change.
- Confidence using data and insights to influence decisions and prioritise activity.
- Experience of legal technology, knowledge management or digital transformation initiatives.
- The ability to build credibility with senior stakeholders and challenge constructively when needed.
- A commercial mindset balanced with sound judgement and a focus on delivering value.
Ready to shape what's next?
If you're interested by the opportunity to influence how a global legal function operates, build smarter ways of working and drive meaningful change at scale, we'd love to hear from you.
- Closing date for applications Friday 2nd October 2026
- #LI-HYBRID
- #LI-KW2
Director Legal Operations employer: IHG
At IHG Hotels & Resorts, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions leadership development and workforce capability. Our inclusive work culture fosters innovation and collaboration, providing employees with unparalleled growth opportunities in a dynamic global environment. With a focus on AI-enabled learning solutions and a commitment to shaping future-ready leaders, IHG offers a meaningful and rewarding career path for those passionate about transforming the hospitality industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director Legal Operations
✨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 IHG, 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 Director Legal Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at IHG, 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 IHG and the specific role of Director Legal Operations. 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 IHG’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at IHG
✨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 IHG.
✨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 IHG.
