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- Tasks: Lead the Legal Services department, providing strategic legal advice to senior leaders.
- Company: Join the University of Nottingham, a diverse and inclusive community committed to excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in governance and compliance while fostering an inclusive culture.
- Qualifications: Must be a senior lawyer with experience in public law and dispute resolution.
- Other info: This is a full-time, permanent role with opportunities for career progression.
The predicted salary is between 88500 - 103000 £ per year.
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Salary
£103,647 to £123,760 per annum (pro-rata if applicable) depending on skills and experience. Salary progression beyond this scale is subject to performance.
Area
Risk Management & Assurance
Location
University Park
Salary
£103,647 to £123,760 per annum (pro-rata if applicable) depending on skills and experience. Salary progression beyond this scale is subject to performance.
Closing Date
Monday 11 August 2025
Reference
REG199025
The Director of Legal Services is the most senior lawyer in the University. Reporting to the Chief Governance and Risk Officer (CGRO)., The Director of Legal Services leads the delivery of Legal Services department, providing expert strategic and operational legal advice and support services to the University and its senior leaders. Legal Services supports the effective delivery of the enabling aspects of governance and compliance within the University’s strategy.
The Director of Legal Services will have the ability to command the confidence and respect of senior stakeholders within the University, of external legal practitioners and office-holders, and within the Higher Education sector. The Director provides strategic and expert operational legal advice both personally and in conjunction with the Legal Services team/external legal panel, in relation to the full spectrum of legal issues relevant to University business and regulatory requirements.
The Director of Legal Services is a technically able senior lawyer who is familiar with navigating within the boundaries of public law, is able to provide advice and support in relation to the full spectrum of legal issues relevant to University business and regulatory requirements; and is a senior lawyer with significant advocacy and negotiation experience in dispute resolution and other settings. The Director of Legal Services will have the ability to lead the University’s response to litigation/threatened litigation, regulatory enforcement action and the most complex legal matters. The Director of Legal Services will provide support to the Chief Governance and Risk Officer and the Director of Governance and Assurance in matters relating to governance, regulation and legal compliance and will take a pro-active role in highlighting risk and supporting in policy development and processes.
The Director of Legal Services has overall lead of and ensures efficient and effective management of the Legal Services team, including its staff and financial resources, in a complex legal and regulatory environment.
The Director of Legal Services will act with integrity and will protect the interests of the University as their client in accordance with the Solicitors’ Regulatory Authority/Bar Council (as appropriate) rules of professional conduct, they will embed an open and inclusive culture which promotes the University’s values and drive a culture of professional excellence. The Director of Legal Services will have the ability to initiate change and to manage on a basis of continuous improvement, responding effectively to the evolving needs of the University.
The post is offered on a full time (36.25 hours per week), permanent contract.
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Further details:
- Job Description/Role Profile
Our university is a supportive, inclusive, caring and positive community. We welcome those of different cultures, ethnicities and beliefs – indeed this very diversity is vital to our success, it is fundamental to our values and enriches life on campus. Visit our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion website.
We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) employer . Increasing the diversity of our community is extremely important to us and we are committed to the aims of Disability Confident Scheme.
We are the first university to have achieved Athena Swan Gold Award .
To help you succeed, we published Candidate Guidance to provide support on the application and interview process.
Discover our benefits, visit Your Benefits website.
We welcome applications from UK, Europe and worldwide and aim to make your move to the UK as smooth as possible. Visit the Moving to Nottingham page for details.
Your application will be considered on an equal basis, subject to the relevant permission to work in the UK as set out by UK Visas & Immigration .
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Director of Legal Services employer: University Of Nottingham
Contact Detail:
University Of Nottingham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Legal Services
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific legal challenges faced by universities, particularly in the UK. Understanding the nuances of public law and regulatory compliance in the higher education sector will help you demonstrate your expertise during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former legal professionals in the higher education sector. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the role and expectations, as well as potential challenges you might face as the Director of Legal Services.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading legal teams and managing complex legal issues. Highlighting your leadership skills and ability to navigate high-stakes situations will be crucial in showcasing your fit for this senior role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the University of Nottingham's values and recent initiatives, especially those related to governance and risk management. Tailoring your conversation to align with their mission will show your genuine interest in contributing to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Legal Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Director of Legal Services position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application effectively.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in legal services, particularly in public law, governance, and compliance. Use specific examples to demonstrate your advocacy and negotiation skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also reflects your understanding of the University’s values and culture. Show how your vision aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their success.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or typos. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a senior legal role.
How to prepare for a job interview at University Of Nottingham
✨Understand the University’s Legal Framework
Familiarise yourself with the legal frameworks and regulations that govern higher education in the UK. This will demonstrate your knowledge of the sector and your ability to navigate complex legal issues relevant to the University.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Director, you'll need to lead a team effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams, resolved conflicts, and driven change in previous roles. Highlight your experience in fostering an inclusive culture within a legal context.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about past experiences where you had to provide strategic legal advice or manage litigation, and be ready to discuss your thought process and outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Engagement
The role requires building relationships with senior stakeholders. Be prepared to discuss how you've engaged with various stakeholders in the past, particularly in high-pressure situations, and how you gained their trust and confidence.
