At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the expansion of our firm across Oxford and Cambridge, driving innovation and growth.
- Company: Join a top-tier law firm with a focus on the early-stage innovation economy.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Dynamic role with significant influence and the chance to mentor a high-performing team.
- Why this job: Shape the future of two iconic cities and make a real impact in the innovation sector.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and a strong understanding of the innovation economy.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 £ per year.
Location: Cambridge or Oxford with frequent travel across both locations and London.
The Role: As the Head of Oxford and Cambridge, you will be the primary architect and leader for the firm's expansion across the "Golden Triangle." Your mission is to unify our presence in two of the world's most significant innovation ecosystems, transforming them from separate entities into a single, dominant powerhouse. Reporting directly to the Board and working closely with the senior leadership in Oxford and Cambridge and Department Chairs, you will lead the strategic shift toward owning the early‑stage innovation economy and unlocking proximate private capital.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership & Growth: Drive the V2030 vision to "own" the Oxford‑Cambridge Arc. Scale the Cambridge office to double its size in 3 years and establish the Oxford office with at least 8 partners in key Innovation and Private disciplines within 2 years.
- Ecosystem Integration: Bridge the gap between Oxford, Cambridge, and London. Position the firm as the undeniably leading practice in the UK's three primary innovation hubs to attract global foreign capital.
- Convening Power & Policy: In collaboration with the Academy, lead high‑profile initiatives to research and deliver solutions for university and town ecosystems. Act as a primary "opinion former" with policy makers and relevant media.
- Business Development & Market Share: Aggressively increase market share in the innovation sector. Identify and secure "share of wallet" from private capital and high‑growth innovation clients.
- Brand Stewardship: Build deep brand association with "unimpeachable excellence" in both locations, leveraging the global prestige of Oxford and Cambridge to sell our services internationally.
- People & Culture: Lead, mentor, and incentivise a high‑performing team. Drive a culture of "thoughtful, inspirational leadership" that overcomes the status quo and encourages cross‑practice collaboration.
Skills and Experience
- Proven Leadership: Significant experience leading a major practice group or regional office within a top‑tier law or professional services firm.
- Strategic Vision: Demonstrated ability to execute complex, multi‑year growth strategies (such as V2030) and manage significant investment budgets.
- Innovation Expertise: Deep understanding of the early‑stage innovation economy, private capital markets, and the unique legal needs of high‑growth tech and life sciences sectors.
- Network & Influence: Exceptional convening power with the ability to influence policy makers, academic leaders, and institutional investors.
- Commercial Acumen: A track record of delivering measurable revenue growth and increasing Profit per Equity Partner (PSEP).
- Location Flexibility: Ability to work seamlessly across Oxford and Cambridge, with frequent travel to London to maintain the "Arc" narrative.
Please note that this job profile is not an exhaustive list of duties but merely an outline of the key components of the role. You may be required by your line manager to take on additional responsibilities when requested.
Head of Oxford & Cambridge employer: Mishcon de Reya LLP
As the Head of Oxford and Cambridge, you will join a forward-thinking firm that prioritises innovation and strategic growth within two of the world's leading academic hubs. Our culture fosters collaboration and mentorship, providing ample opportunities for professional development while driving impactful initiatives that shape the future of the innovation economy. With a commitment to excellence and a dynamic work environment, we empower our leaders to make significant contributions that resonate across the global stage.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Oxford & Cambridge
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, seminars, and networking meet-ups in Oxford and Cambridge. The more faces you know, the better your chances of landing that dream job.
✨Show Off Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back! Share your insights on the early-stage innovation economy and how you can help them grow. We want to see your passion and knowledge shine through!
✨Follow Up Like a Boss
After any meeting or networking event, drop a quick follow-up email. Thank them for their time and reiterate your interest in the role. It shows you're keen and keeps you fresh in their minds!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Oxford & Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Strategic Vision:When writing your application, make sure to highlight your strategic vision and how it aligns with our V2030 goals. We want to see how you can drive growth and innovation in the Oxford-Cambridge Arc.
Demonstrate Leadership Experience:We’re looking for proven leaders! Share specific examples of your leadership experience in a major practice group or regional office. Tell us how you've mentored teams and driven performance.
Highlight Your Network & Influence:Your ability to connect with policy makers and academic leaders is crucial. In your application, mention any relevant networks you have and how you've used them to influence change in the past.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure your application speaks directly to the role. Use the job description as a guide to tailor your CV and cover letter, showcasing how your skills and experiences make you the perfect fit for us. And remember, apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mishcon de Reya LLP
✨Know Your Ecosystem
Familiarise yourself with the Oxford-Cambridge Arc and its significance in the innovation economy. Be prepared to discuss how you can bridge the gap between these two locations and London, showcasing your understanding of their unique ecosystems.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Vision
Prepare to articulate your vision for scaling the Cambridge office and establishing a strong presence in Oxford. Think about specific strategies you would implement to achieve the V2030 goals and how you would manage investment budgets effectively.
✨Showcase Your Network
Highlight your existing connections with policy makers, academic leaders, and institutional investors. Be ready to discuss how you can leverage these relationships to enhance the firm's influence and attract global capital.
✨Emphasise Leadership Style
Reflect on your leadership approach and how it aligns with fostering a high-performing team culture. Prepare examples of how you've mentored others and driven collaboration across practices in previous roles.
