At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert legal advice on commercial matters and manage a dynamic legal team.
- Company: Join UK Research and Innovation, a leader in research funding and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Embrace a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the public sector while developing your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Qualified lawyer with experience in commercial law and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 58589 - 65100 £ per year.
UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is an independent, non-departmental public body, bringing together the seven Research Councils, Innovate UK, and Research England. UKRI works to maximise value from the UK Government's investment in research and innovation, and its budget was £8bn in 2022. UKRI's mission is to lead the overall strategic direction of research and innovation funding in the UK, pushing the frontiers of human knowledge, to deliver benefits for UK society and the economy through world-class research and business-led innovation.
The UKRI Legal Team delivers high quality, pragmatic and commercially focused legal advice across a broad range of issues that support the effective operation and statutory functions of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). The team's work is wide ranging and continues to grow in both scope and complexity. Our current commercial portfolio includes large scale projects and complex contracts, public procurement, intellectual property, property matters, company law, subsidy control, grant funding and research contracts.
Lawyers working in UKRI Legal are expected to take a flexible and proactive approach, quickly developing expertise in new or unfamiliar legal areas as UKRI's remit evolves in response to organisational and policy developments.
Role and Responsibilities
- You will be an experienced lawyer with significant experience advising complex commercial matters and transactions, able to operate effectively within the statutory framework applicable to a non-departmental public body.
- You will work with minimal supervision and deliver clear, pragmatic, and legally robust advice across a broad range of commercial matters, with particular emphasis on commercial and contract law, grant funding and research contracts.
- The role also includes line management responsibility for a small team of legal professionals, supporting their development and fostering continuous professional growth.
Personal Specification
The below criteria will be scored during Shortlisting (S), Interview (I) or both (S&I).
Essential
- Academic Qualifications: A minimum of a 2:1 honour degree (or equivalent) in any discipline, or demonstrable equivalent academic or professional achievement, this may include relevant experience and successful completion of the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL)/CPE, Legal Practice Course (LPC), Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) (S).
- Professional Qualifications: Qualified to practise as a Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive in England and Wales (S).
- Substantial experience gained following qualification in commercial and contract law (S).
- At interview, candidates must demonstrate and provide evidence of extensive experience of providing pragmatic, business-focused legal advice on commercial and contract law matters, including grant funding and research contracts. Experience of advising on one or more of subsidy control, public procurement or public law would be advantageous (S&I).
- Proven experience of managing, leading, developing and supporting a high performing team of legal professionals (I).
- Strong legal judgement and appreciation of legal risk (I).
- The ability to think strategically and creatively, see legal issues in their wider context and advise accordingly (I).
- Strong analytical skills, and the ability to deliver timely, proportionate, and considered advice based on sound legal research (I).
- The ability to build strong relationships with clients and champion the work of the Legal Team (I).
- An understanding of the role of lawyers within public sector organisations and the ability to apply the governance and statutory framework within which UKRI operates (I).
Candidates invited to interview will be asked to provide specific examples to demonstrate how they meet the above criteria.
Benefits
We recognise and value our employees as individuals and aim to provide a favourable pay and rewards package. We are committed to supporting employees' development and promote a culture of continuous learning!
- An outstanding defined benefit pension scheme.
- 30 days' annual leave in addition to 10.5 public and privilege days (full time equivalent).
- Employee discounts and offers on retail and leisure activities.
- Employee assistance programme, providing confidential help and advice.
- Flexible working options.
- Plus, many more benefits and wellbeing initiatives that enable our employees to have a great work life balance!
For further information on our benefits please see: Benefits of working at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
Please apply online, if you experience any issue applying, please contact.
Please note, if you will require sponsorship to work in the UK, as part of your sponsorship application, you and any dependants travelling with you, will be required to pay costs directly to The Home Office for the application before you start your role with us. UKRI is normally able to reimburse some, or all of these fees after you have become an employee and this can be discussed with the Hiring Manager.
Senior In-House Lawyer (Commercial) in Sheffield employer: UKRI
The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters professional growth and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee development, the LMB provides comprehensive training opportunities and encourages continuous learning, making it an ideal place for HR professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in the scientific community. Located in the vibrant Cambridge Biomedical Campus, employees benefit from a supportive culture that values innovation and teamwork, ensuring a rewarding career path in Human Resources.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior In-House Lawyer (Commercial) in Sheffield
✨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 UKRI, 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 Senior In-House Lawyer (Commercial) in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at UKRI, 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 UKRI and the specific role of Senior In-House Lawyer (Commercial). 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 UKRI’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at UKRI
✨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 UKRI.
✨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 UKRI.
