At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal projects and provide strategic advice on complex legal matters at UCL.
- Company: Join one of the world's top 10 universities with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days holiday, pension scheme, gym access, and more.
- Other info: Diversity is key; we encourage applications from underrepresented groups.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while working with senior stakeholders on high-profile initiatives.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor or barrister with significant experience in commercial law.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 110000 £ per year.
UCL has over 50,000 students and 16,000 staff, a turnover of £1.9bn and is one of the world's top 10 universities. We have a significant property portfolio consisting of more than 200 properties that we own or lease and we are involved in a number of substantial development and construction projects. Our Legal Services Department, which is part of the Office of the General Counsel, is responsible for providing advice on a wide range of legal matters across the University's 14 faculties and extensive professional services departments.
About the role
We're looking for an experienced commercial lawyer to play a key role within Legal Services, which is experiencing increasing demand and complexity. This is an exciting, high-profile job which offers the opportunity to engage directly with UCL's most senior stakeholders and committees, and contribute to major strategic initiatives. This senior position involves supporting a broad range of UCL's activities, with a focus on general commercial contracts, outsourcing, IT, IP, strategic partnerships, research and governance matters, alongside managing a team of lawyers. As a member of the Legal Services leadership team, you will contribute to the strategic direction and management of the department, delivering high-quality legal support across complex, high-value matters and advising on issues of institutional importance. The job is integral to ensuring legal risks are effectively managed and aligned with UCL's strategic objectives, while enhancing the profile and reputation of Legal Services as a trusted, proactive partner.
About you
To succeed in this role, you will be a qualified solicitor or barrister with significant post-qualification experience and a strong track record of advising on complex legal matters within a large and/or complex organisation. You will bring strong experience in general commercial legal work, including drafting and negotiating complex agreements and providing pragmatic, solutions-focused advice. Experience in one or more of the following areas would be advantageous: outsourcing, research and collaboration agreements, intellectual property, life sciences, IT/IP or corporate/structural matters. You will also demonstrate significant experience of leading complex legal projects and delivering outcomes across cross-disciplinary initiatives, working effectively with both legal and non-legal stakeholders. Alongside this, you have a proven ability to build and manage strong stakeholder relationships, enabling you to influence and advise senior colleagues and support the delivery of organisational priorities. You will have prior experience managing and developing teams of qualified lawyers, and the confidence and credibility to operate at a senior level.
What we offer
- 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)
- Additional 5 days' annual leave purchase scheme
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
- Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
- Relocation scheme for certain posts
- On-site gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
- Discounted medical insurance
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As London's Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world's talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL's workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.
Deputy Director, Legal Services employer: UCL
UCL is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment within one of the world's leading universities. With a commitment to employee growth, UCL provides extensive benefits including 41 days of holiday, a defined benefit pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development. The collaborative culture fosters innovation and inclusivity, making it an ideal place for legal professionals to thrive while contributing to impactful strategic initiatives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Director, Legal Services
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who have ties to UCL. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on UCL's recent projects and legal challenges. Show us that you’re not just a lawyer, but someone who understands the university's mission and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your experience with complex legal matters and how you've successfully managed teams. We want to see your leadership skills shine through.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who follow the process!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director, Legal Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know the Job Description Inside Out:Before you start writing, give the job description a thorough read. Make sure you understand what UCL is looking for in a Deputy Director, Legal Services. Highlight the key skills and experiences they want, and think about how your background aligns with those requirements.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We want to see how your unique experience fits the role. Use specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your expertise in commercial law, team management, and stakeholder engagement. This will show us you’re the right fit for UCL.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-structured applications that get straight to the point while still showcasing your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the necessary details and resources there to help you along the way!
How to prepare for a job interview at UCL
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the key legal areas mentioned in the job description, like commercial contracts and intellectual property. Be ready to discuss your experience with these topics and how you've navigated complex legal matters in the past.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves managing a team of lawyers, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Highlight any specific projects where you influenced outcomes and built strong relationships with stakeholders.
✨Understand UCL's Strategic Goals
Familiarise yourself with UCL's mission and strategic objectives. Think about how your legal expertise can align with their goals and contribute to major initiatives. This will show that you're not just a legal expert but also a strategic partner.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare insightful ones that demonstrate your interest in the role and the department. For example, ask about the current challenges facing the Legal Services Department or how they measure success in this position.
