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.
£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 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
- 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 or 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.
Senior Legal Advisor in West Bromwich 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. Join us to make a meaningful difference while enjoying a balanced work-life dynamic in either Bristol or London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal Advisor in West Bromwich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who have experience in public law or regulatory roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on current issues in higher education law. Show that you’re not just knowledgeable but also passionate about the impact of regulation on students and universities. We want to see your enthusiasm!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your professionalism.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply 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 the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Legal Advisor in West Bromwich
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 statutory interpretation and regulatory frameworks. We’re looking for someone who can navigate complex legal issues, so be sure to include examples that demonstrate your expertise in these areas.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly understand your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your materials directly and can consider you for this exciting opportunity to shape higher education regulation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Office for Students
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Make sure you brush up on public law and regulatory frameworks before the interview. Familiarise yourself with recent cases or changes in legislation that could impact higher education. This will show your expertise and readiness to tackle complex legal issues.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully navigated politically sensitive or legally complex situations. Highlight your experience in regulatory enforcement or investigations, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Research the Office for Students and its role in protecting student interests. Be ready to discuss how your legal advice can directly influence their mission. This demonstrates your alignment with their goals and your commitment to making a meaningful impact.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the legal team's current challenges or upcoming projects. This not only shows your interest in the role but also your proactive approach to understanding the organisation's needs and how you can contribute.
