Senior University Lawyer

Who we are

Now rated a top three modern University in London, we provide an engaging portfolio of apprenticeships, short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. We also have an excellent research profile and were jointly recognised as the best modern university in the country for research, and the highest-ranked modern university in London in REF2021. Candidates will have the opportunity to join a busy department working at the heart of a complex organisation with a strong sense of mission and purpose. At Roehampton, we change lives by helping our students to develop the confidence, knowledge and adaptability they need for a successful graduate career and fulfilling life. We are a supportive, close-knit and inclusive community, with a proud history in higher education stretching back more than 175 years. Our values come from this rich history, built on community, engagement and partnership, with a belief that no matter their background, we can help our students realise their ambitions.

The Role

This is an exciting opportunity to join and lead a busy and successful in-house legal, information governance and student casework team. The team is part of the Directorate of Governance, Legal and Vice Chancellor’s Office, under the COO and University Secretary. The work of the team is fast paced, often reactive, and integral to delivering the University’s policy and operational priorities. The legal issues cover the full range of legal and regulatory issues facing the University including academic partnerships, student and staff complaints and disciplinary matters, freedom of speech and academic freedom, employment, regulatory compliance, commercial contracts, intellectual property, real estate, construction projects and litigation.

The Senior University Lawyer will manage the provision of high-quality legal, information governance and casework services to the University. They will manage a small team across the different services and work collaboratively with senior University leaders and colleagues across Academic Schools and Professional Services to deliver solutions-based advice which is centred on a sound assessment of legal risk. The role would suit a qualified solicitor or barrister with a commercial and contractual background or previous in-house experience, ideally in education or public sector, who is comfortable engaging with a broad range of legal work. You will have at least 5 years PQE. You will have excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

If you have any specific questions on the role, please contact Rachael Stone, rachael.c.stone@roehampton.ac.uk.

The University is committed to promoting diversity and equality of opportunity and aims to create a culture and environment where students and staff are treated fairly. The University is an equal opportunities and ‘disability confident’ employer. Staff have access to our highly competitive RoePlus benefits package ranging from sector leading family related leave discounts at over 200 high street shops and brands, discounted IT hardware and software, a University’s Retirement Savings Group Pension Plan, a defined contribution scheme.

The closing date for completed applications is: 15 September 2026. It is expected that interviews will be held on: 5 October 2026 and in person. You are encouraged to apply promptly, as we reserve the right to close the role and interview before the dates stated above. Visa Sponsorship is not available for this role. Candidates who apply for this role must already hold the legal right to work in the UK.