At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide legal advice on contracts, company law, and procurement for a charity.
- Company: Join UCAS, a purpose-driven charity connecting people to education and opportunities.
- Benefits: Up to £50,000 salary, hybrid working, 30 days leave, and wellness support.
- Other info: Enjoy a collaborative culture with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your legal skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor or legal executive with experience in commercial contracts.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 50000 £ per year.
Business Unit Description
Our Finance and Corporate Services business unit is a fusion of multiple functions – financial planning and accounting, facilities and building management, procurement, corporate governance and performance, legal and compliance.
The Finance Team also defines UCAS' financial strategy.
About The Role
To support the provision of timely, outcomes‑focused and commercially astute legal advice with a focus on contracts, company, intellectual property and procurement, to support the charity and its trading subsidiary, UCAS Media.
Taking a risk‑based approach to legal advice, you will work with Senior Legal Counsel and Governance teams to ensure legal advice is robust and pragmatic.
Contractual Hours
35.00 hours per week.
- Key Accountabilities
- Identifying legal risks within the company and advising on appropriate ways to manage and mitigate such risks that are relevant and proportionate to UCAS and its activities.
- Dealing with the preparation, negotiation, drafting, revision, and finalisation of various contract documents including Terms of Service and a range of terms and conditions to support business activities.
You will be expected to apply your expertise across UCAS ‘standard terms’, supplier terms as well as bespoke contracts.
- You Will Support the Legal and Governance Teams With
- Updating/upkeeping effectively completed legal agreements/advice and legal precedents.
- Maintaining our Legal and Regulatory Register, including keeping up to date with legislative changes which may impact on UCAS’ business in terms of compliance.
Skills, Qualifications, And Experience
- You will be a qualified solicitor or legal executive with a proven track record of drafting and advising on commercial contracts and procurement.
- You will have experience of identifying and managing legal risk across a diverse legal portfolio utilizing a risk‑based approach to delivering pragmatic advice and guidance.
- Ideally you will have experience in an in‑house environment.
- Strong technical skills and attention to detail particularly in contractual matters is essential.
- You will be a team player who works collaboratively with a positive and proactive approach which is outcomes focused.
- You will need to have a can‑do attitude as well as a willingness to work flexibly with colleagues of differing skills and experience.
- You must be approachable and be able to present your legal advice in a plain and concise manner.
Package
- Purpose‑driven work in a charity‑led organisation connecting people to education and opportunity
- Internal training, mentoring and access to industry‑recognised certifications through our development academies
- Hybrid working model built on trust and flexibility, with a 35‑hour week and flexible contracts
- 30 days annual leave, 3 concessionary days over Christmas, bank holidays, and the option to purchase additional leave
- Everyday wellbeing support through Perkbox, offering discounts and wellness tools
- Onsite facilities including a subsidised gym, café and free parking at our Cheltenham office
- Inclusive culture supported by employee networks, wellbeing champions, and Mental Health First Aiders
- Recognition and reward through our quarterly employee scheme and an ex‑gratia bonus for going above and beyond
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Legal Counsel in Gloucester employer: UCAS
UCAS is an exceptional employer, offering a purpose-driven work environment that connects individuals to higher education opportunities. With a strong commitment to employee growth through internal training and access to industry-recognised certifications, UCAS fosters an inclusive culture supported by various employee networks and wellbeing initiatives. The hybrid working model, generous leave policies, and onsite facilities further enhance the overall employee experience, making it a rewarding place to work in Cheltenham.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Counsel in Gloucester
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including UCAS, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Counsel in Gloucester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at UCAS, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in UCAS and the specific role of Legal Counsel. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for UCAS’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at UCAS
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at UCAS.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at UCAS.
