At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal advice on complex regulatory matters affecting 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: Flexible working arrangements and part-time options available.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' futures while working in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor with experience in public law or regulation.
The predicted salary is between 68720 - 72004 € per year.
£68,720 – £72,004 + £7,500 allowance + London weighting (£3,566 where applicable) Bristol or London | 12 Month Fixed-Term Contract | Generous Civil Service pension
The chance to shape regulation at the heart of English higher education. 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 RoleYou’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
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
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.
Senior Legal Advisor in Newport 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 that values public impact. This role not only provides autonomy and strategic influence but also allows you to contribute to significant regulatory initiatives that protect students' interests.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal Advisor in Newport
✨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 industry events or webinars to make connections and learn about potential job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on current issues in higher education law. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the role of Senior Legal Adviser and how you can contribute to shaping regulation effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio of your previous work that highlights your experience in public law and regulatory matters. This will give you an edge during discussions with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got a range of opportunities that might just be the perfect fit for you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Legal Advisor in Newport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in public law and regulatory matters. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant skills and achievements!
Showcase Your Legal Expertise:In your written application, emphasise your knowledge of complex legal issues, especially those related to public law and regulatory frameworks. We’re looking for someone who can navigate these areas with confidence, so let your expertise shine through!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key messages are easy to understand. This will help us see your thought process and communication skills.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter, which is always a bonus!
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 specific cases or legislation that relate to the role, as this will show your depth of knowledge and how it applies to the Office for Students.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
This role is all about working with senior stakeholders and external counsel. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated in previous roles, highlighting your ability to influence and lead discussions in a legal context.
✨Prepare for Complex Scenarios
Expect questions that test your judgement and decision-making skills in politically sensitive situations. Think of past experiences where you had to navigate complex legal issues and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions that demonstrate your interest in the organisation's mission and the legal challenges they face. This shows you're not just interested in the role, but also in contributing to their goals.
