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- Tasks: Lead research services across EMEA, managing teams and enhancing support for the business.
- Company: Join a prestigious global law firm known for its high standards and innovative approach.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £130,000 – £160,000 and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving innovation in research services within a supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Seven years in research services, four in a supervisory role; legal background preferred.
- Other info: Hands-on leadership role with international collaboration and flexible working across time zones.
The predicted salary is between 130000 - 160000 £ per year.
We’re working with a global law firm that’s looking to bring in a Director of Research Services to lead operations across their EMEA offices. The role is based in London and will suit someone who enjoys driving high standards across teams, managing international stakeholders, and thinking practically about how research services can better support the business.
The right person will already be operating at the Director level, or be a senior leader ready to take that next step. You’ll need at least seven years of experience in research services and four years in a supervisory role. A background in legal or professional services is ideal, and a Master’s in Library or Information Science (or equivalent) is preferred.
This is a hands-on leadership role, overseeing a team with direct reports in multiple locations. You’ll need to be comfortable managing across time zones, navigating competing priorities, and working closely with partners and senior staff—often when they’re under pressure. You’ll also play a key role in promoting smarter use of research platforms, analytics, and workflow tools, and collaborating with global teams on innovation initiatives.
The firm is offering a salary of £130,000 – £160,000 depending on experience.
If this sounds like a good fit, feel free to get in touch—I’d be happy to talk it through in more detail.
Director of Research Services employer: Pure Search
Contact Detail:
Pure Search Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Research Services
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the legal and research services sectors. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues or stakeholders. Building these connections can give you insights into the firm’s culture and expectations.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in research services, especially within the legal sector. Being knowledgeable about current tools and analytics will demonstrate your commitment to innovation and efficiency, which is crucial for this role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you manage teams across different time zones. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated competing priorities and supported your team under pressure.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the global law firm thoroughly. Understand their values, recent initiatives, and challenges they face in research services. Tailoring your conversation to align with their goals will show that you’re genuinely interested in contributing to their success.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Research Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in research services, particularly any leadership roles. Emphasise your ability to manage teams across different locations and your familiarity with legal or professional services.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, explain why you are the perfect fit for the Director of Research Services role. Discuss your experience in driving high standards and managing international stakeholders, and how you can contribute to the firm's goals.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your capability in overseeing research services. Include metrics or examples of how you've improved processes or led successful projects.
Highlight Your Educational Background: If you have a Master’s in Library or Information Science, make sure to mention it prominently. If you have equivalent qualifications, explain how they relate to the role and your expertise in research services.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pure Search
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a candidate for the Director of Research Services, it's crucial to highlight your leadership experience. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams, especially in high-pressure situations, and how you've driven high standards across different locations.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Management Skills
Given the role involves managing international stakeholders, be ready to discuss your approach to stakeholder management. Share instances where you've navigated competing priorities and built strong relationships with partners and senior staff.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Research Platforms
The firm is looking for someone who can promote smarter use of research platforms and analytics. Brush up on the latest tools and technologies in research services, and be prepared to discuss how you can leverage these to enhance operations.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to think practically. Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them, particularly in a legal or professional services context.
