At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the legal team to support mental health advocacy through strategic litigation and policy influence.
- Company: Mind is a leading mental health charity dedicated to improving lives and advocating for those in need.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fixed-term role with a focus on impactful work and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: This is a maternity cover position lasting until September 2026.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven organisation making a real difference in mental health support and advocacy.
- Qualifications: Legal expertise and experience in managing teams, with a commitment to equity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 Β£ per year.
Job Description
About the team
This role is a maternity cover and is fixed term until September 2026.
Every year, 1 in 4 of us will experience a mental health problem. However, too many of us are not getting the help we desperately need. Growing numbers in England are on the waiting list for mental health services, whilst the number of young people struggling with their mental health has nearly doubled.
Mind has an ambitious strategy to ensure everyone experience a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve, with a particular focus on groups with some of the worst experiences.
Team information
The legal team oversees our work to use the law to achieve positive outcomes for people with a mental health problem, including through strategic litigation and supporting our wider policy and influencing activity. We also provide legal expertise and knowledge to shape the development of specialist information and support for people with a mental health problem.
Key duties and responsibilities
The Head of Legal will lead the work of the legal team, providing strong leadership to guide and support members of the team with their work. They will also provide exceptional legal expertise and knowledge to equip Mind in its work to improve outcomes for people with a mental health problem.
β To oversee the delivery of strategic litigation work in line with Mind's strategy and influencing priorities
β To oversee the provision of legal knowledge to support our work to influence policy and legislation to secure change for people with a mental health problem
β To oversee the delivery of Mind's legal line, including quality assurance, training, evaluation, safeguarding and responding to complaints
β To oversee the development of Mind's legal information, working with the Information Content team to identify areas to cover, develop and update resources
β To embed a focus on equity in the provision of legal advice and guidance provided to other teams across Mind
β To establish an inclusive and high-performing legal team, that enables people to thrive and deliver impactful work, including effective line management of two direct reports
β To maintain a current practising certificate and keep abreast of developments in law relevant to Mind's work
β To oversee and manage the legal team budget
β To act as an ambassador and representative of Mind at external events and, as required
Mind's equity statement
Mind is committed to equality of opportunity for all staff, and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
Please refer to the Job Description while completing your application as candidates will be shortlisted based on how closely they match the criteria in the personal specification.
Head of Legal (FTC Maternity Cover) employer: Mind
Contact Detail:
Mind Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Head of Legal (FTC Maternity Cover)
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Mind's mission and values. Understanding their focus on mental health and the specific challenges faced by different groups will help you align your experience and expertise with their goals during discussions.
β¨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the mental health and legal sectors. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with individuals who may have insights into the role and the organisation, which can give you an edge in interviews.
β¨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Highlighting your ability to foster an inclusive and high-performing environment will resonate well with Mind's values.
β¨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current legal developments related to mental health. Being knowledgeable about recent cases or changes in legislation will demonstrate your commitment and readiness to lead the legal team effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Legal (FTC Maternity Cover)
Some tips for your application π«‘
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Legal position. Pay attention to the key duties and responsibilities, as well as the skills and qualifications required. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your legal expertise, particularly in areas related to mental health law, strategic litigation, and policy influence. Provide specific examples of past work that demonstrate your ability to lead a legal team and manage complex legal issues.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Since this role involves leading a team, make sure to include examples of your leadership experience. Discuss how you have successfully managed teams, supported team members, and contributed to creating an inclusive work environment.
Personalise Your Application: Craft a compelling cover letter that reflects your passion for mental health advocacy and your commitment to equity. Mention Mind's mission and how you can contribute to their goals. Personalising your application will help you stand out from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mind
β¨Understand Mind's Mission
Familiarise yourself with Mind's mission and values, especially their focus on mental health support. Be prepared to discuss how your legal expertise can contribute to their goals and improve outcomes for individuals facing mental health challenges.
β¨Showcase Leadership Skills
As the Head of Legal, strong leadership is crucial. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully led a team, managed conflicts, or implemented changes that improved team performance and morale.
β¨Demonstrate Legal Expertise
Be ready to discuss your legal background in detail, particularly in areas relevant to mental health law. Highlight any experience with strategic litigation or policy influence, as these are key aspects of the role.
β¨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making process. Think about potential legal challenges Mind might face and how you would approach them, ensuring to incorporate equity and inclusivity in your responses.