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- Tasks: Support charities with legal advice on governance and commercial matters.
- Company: Join a leading charity law firm making a real difference.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous benefits, and tailored career development.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the charity sector while expanding your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: 4-6+ years’ PQE preferred, but all backgrounds welcome.
- Other info: Collaborative team environment with strong focus on diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Are you a solicitor with experience in charity, corporate, or commercial law, seeking a meaningful and rewarding career? Join our highly regarded Charity and Not‑for‑Profit team and help make a real difference.
This is an excellent opportunity to take on a broad, stimulating and varied role. You will support charities of all sizes to meet their legal and regulatory obligations, acting as a trusted advisor on strategic governance and commercial matters. Your work will include:
- Establishing new charities and drafting or updating governing documents
- Advising on company and charity law
- Supporting charity restructures, mergers and incorporations
- Providing guidance on commercial contracts, including brand licences and fundraising agreements
The role is genuinely diverse and would suit someone who is enthusiastic about expanding their expertise across a wide range of legal areas. You will be part of a close and collaborative team. One of our three governance partners will act as your supervisor, but you will work closely with colleagues across the team – including specialists in property, data protection and employment. You will be encouraged to take ownership of matters, manage your own workload, and build strong client relationships.
We expect the role to suit someone with 4-6+ years’ PQE, but we have some flexibility around this. We welcome applications from candidates with a range of backgrounds. This includes:
- Lawyers in private practice
- Those returning from a career break
- Lawyers with relevant in‑house experience
- Individuals who have come to law as a second career
While previous experience advising charities is beneficial, it is not essential. What matters most is an interest in the charity and not‑for‑profit sector, a proactive and curious approach to learning, and enthusiasm for getting involved in business development.
Our team is recognised as one of the leading charity practices in the UK, consistently ranked in The Legal 500 and Chambers UK. We work with a wide variety of clients – from some of the country’s best‑known charities to innovative start‑ups, philanthropists and corporate foundations – and we have particular strength in international work. We are a team of 18 lawyers and one trainee, all dedicated exclusively to charities and not‑for‑profit organisations. Our combined expertise spans governance, commercial, property, intellectual property, data protection, employment, and safeguarding.
Russell‑Cooke was named Law Firm of the Year: The Independents at The Lawyer Awards in 2025. Our lawyers are rounded professional advisers with strong commercial awareness and a commitment to outstanding client service. All lawyers benefit from our cohort‑based career development programme, which supports cross‑firm collaboration and helps you build your internal network. As you move through each career stage, you will have access to tailored training designed to support your development and progression.
We offer competitive salaries and a generous package of benefits. For more information or to apply please follow the link on the portal. We welcome direct applications. If you would like any further information about the firm, please contact a member of the HR team.
We have a diverse workforce and aim to attract high‑calibre applicants that reflect the demography of our geographical location and client base. Individuals will be employed solely on merit and the requirement of the position. No applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of sex, race, marital status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or religion. Reasonable adjustments will be made to eliminate or reduce disadvantage.
Associate - Charity and Governance employer: Russell Cooke LLP
Contact Detail:
Russell Cooke LLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate - Charity and Governance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the charity sector. Attend events, join online forums, or even reach out to folks on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for charity work! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to express your enthusiasm for the not-for-profit sector. Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your commitment.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are keen to join us. It shows initiative and gives you a better chance to stand out in the crowd.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate - Charity and Governance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Charity: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the charity and not-for-profit sector shine through. We want to see that you’re genuinely interested in making a difference and supporting organisations in meeting their legal obligations.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in charity, corporate, or commercial law. Even if you haven't worked directly with charities before, we’re keen to see how your skills can transfer to this role.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application 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 why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our firm there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Russell Cooke LLP
✨Know Your Charities
Before the interview, do your homework on the charity sector. Familiarise yourself with current issues and trends affecting charities, as well as the specific organisation you're interviewing with. This will show your genuine interest and help you engage in meaningful discussions.
✨Showcase Your Legal Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience in charity, corporate, or commercial law. Think of specific examples where you've advised clients or handled legal matters relevant to the role. This will demonstrate your capability and readiness to take on the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team, the types of clients they work with, and their approach to charity governance. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you assess if the firm aligns with your career goals and values.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with a collaborative team, highlight your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with colleagues from different specialisations, and express your eagerness to contribute to a supportive environment.
