At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal advice on public law and regulatory matters impacting higher education.
- Company: Join the Office for Students, shaping the future of education in England.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career growth and influence.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while tackling complex legal challenges.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor with experience in public law or regulation.
The predicted salary is between 68720 - 72004 € per year.
The Office for Students is looking for an experienced public law or regulatory lawyer to join its legal team as a Senior Legal Adviser. This is a rare opportunity to work on complex, high-profile legal issues that directly affect students, universities, and the future of higher education in England.
You’ll operate at senior level across a fast-moving regulatory environment, advising on matters that are politically sensitive, legally complex, and nationally significant. Whether your background comes from a regulator, central or local government, private practice, or another public body, this role offers the opportunity to apply your expertise in a genuinely influential setting.
The Role
You’ll lead on the provision of legal advice across a broad range of regulatory and public law matters, working closely with senior stakeholders across the organisation. This is a role for someone comfortable operating with autonomy, judgement, and influence. The work is varied, intellectually demanding, and highly collaborative. You’ll advise on areas including:
- Public law and statutory interpretation
- Regulatory enforcement and investigations
- Consumer protection law
- Human rights and equalities law
- Judicial review and litigation management
- Information law, including GDPR and FOI
- Regulatory frameworks and registration conditions
Alongside delivering complex legal advice, you’ll also help shape the wider legal function by:
- Supporting the leadership and development of the legal team
- Managing relationships with external counsel and legal providers
- Delivering training and guidance across the organisation
- Contributing to strategic and operational legal initiatives
About You
Qualified Solicitor with experience in public law, regulation, or a comparable environment. You do not need higher education sector experience, but you will bring transferable expertise. You’ll likely have experience in at least two of the following:
- Public law
- Regulatory enforcement or investigations
- Consumer protection law
- Interpretation of regulatory rules or licence conditions
- Advising on sector-specific legislation within a regulated environment
Why Join the OfS?
The OfS plays a critical role in protecting students’ interests and ensuring quality and accountability across higher education in England. You’ll join an organisation where legal advice sits close to decision-making and where your work will have visible impact. The environment is collaborative, thoughtful, and mission-driven, with scope to broaden your expertise across a uniquely varied regulatory landscape.
Flexible and hybrid working is actively supported, with teams typically attending the office two days per week. Part-time working, job share arrangements, and secondment enquiries are also welcomed.
If you’re looking for a role combining complex public law work, strategic influence, and meaningful public impact, this is well worth exploring.
Locations
Senior Legal Advisor in Newport, Wales employer: Office for Students
The Office for Students is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to influence the future of higher education in England through complex legal work. With a collaborative and mission-driven culture, employees benefit from flexible working arrangements, generous pension schemes, and the chance to develop their expertise in a supportive environment. This role not only provides the chance to engage with high-profile legal issues but also allows for significant personal and professional growth within a vital public sector organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal Advisor in Newport, Wales
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the legal field, especially those who work in public law or regulatory environments. Attend events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on current issues in higher education law. Familiarise yourself with recent cases and regulatory changes that could impact the sector. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your experience and how it aligns with the responsibilities of a Senior Legal Adviser. Highlight your ability to operate autonomously and influence decision-making, as these are key traits they’re looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. So, get your application in and let’s make an impact together!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Legal Advisor in Newport, Wales
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Legal Adviser role. Highlight your experience in public law and regulatory matters, and show us how your skills align with the job description. We want to see how you can make a difference!
Showcase Relevant Experience:When detailing your work history, focus on your experience in areas like regulatory enforcement or consumer protection law. Use specific examples that demonstrate your expertise and how you've tackled complex legal issues in the past. This is your chance to shine!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and long-winded explanations. Make it easy for us to see your qualifications and why you're the right fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised!
How to prepare for a job interview at Office for Students
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Make sure you brush up on public law, regulatory enforcement, and consumer protection law. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the specific legal issues mentioned in the job description. This shows you’re not just familiar with the basics but can dive deep into complex topics.
✨Showcase Your Autonomy
This role requires someone who can operate with autonomy and influence. Prepare examples from your past where you’ve taken the lead on legal matters or made significant decisions independently. Highlighting your judgement will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since the position involves working closely with senior stakeholders, think of instances where you’ve successfully managed relationships or collaborated with various teams. Be ready to discuss how you can bring that collaborative spirit to the Office for Students.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to regulatory challenges or public law dilemmas. Practise articulating your thought process and decision-making strategies. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to handle politically sensitive issues.
