Head of Legal Services

Salary: From £70,000 depending on skills and experience

Staffordshire University

Staffordshire University is a teaching-intensive and research-inspired University with a focus on an academic experience which delivers excellence in work integrated learning, digital innovation and entrepreneurial skills and behaviours. As Head of Legal Services, you will play a significant, strategic role in supporting our ambitions and supporting the delivery of the University’s Strategic Plan. 

We are looking for a Solicitor or Barrister with extensive experience of working as an in-house lawyer across a broad spectrum of legal topics. Experience of working in Higher Education would be an advantage but is not essential. 

Reporting to and working closely with the Chief Operating Officer, and other members of the University Executive and Senior Managers as required, the postholder is responsible for the management of legal issues across the University. You will be supported by the University’s Assistant Solicitor and will be responsible for managing matters which are outsourced to our external lawyers. This is a varied workload which includes contract and policy drafting, advice on dispute resolution, data protection, freedom of information, and the general legal work involved in protecting the University’s assets, business interests and reputation. 

In addition to a competitive salary, the post offers a range of benefits including the opportunity to join a generous defined contribution pension scheme. 

For an informal discussion about the role, contact Mark Downie Email: M.Downie@staffs.ac.uk

Who is Staffordshire University? 

Staffordshire University is an award winning, teaching-intensive and research-inspired university with a focus on work integrated learning, digital innovation and enterprise engagement. With over 100 years’ experience, we are a successful, confident and ambitious modern university, with a foundational purpose of providing higher and applied learning opportunities relevant to our region and beyond.

Spread across three main campuses in Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford and London, our future-focused courses and next-level teaching ensure our students can unlock the potential the world needs now to support better futures.

This is a key reason why we are ranked 2nd in the UK for quality education (Sustainable Development Goal 4, THE Impact Rankings 2023) and why we’re in the top 10 of UK universities for career prospects (WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2023).

As a university it is important that we are at the forefront of research, delivering impact across the globe and informing how and what we teach. In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework, 87% of our research impact is recognised as “outstanding” or “very considerable”, demonstrating how we continue to push further to create a better tomorrow for our local and global communities.

When you join Staffordshire University, you join a highly supportive, supportive, boundary-pushing culture where insight and innovation is celebrated, expertise is valued, and excellence is rewarded. We can’t wait to see the contribution that you make to the continued growth and success of the Institution.

Rewards and Benefits

In return for your dedication we have a competitive benefits package available

•  Competitive incremental rates of Pay
•  37 days Annual Leave plus 11 days Bank Holiday and Discretionary days
•  Excellent Pension Scheme
•  Access to continued professional and personal development
•  An opportunity to become part of the wider University community
•  Access to an Employee Assistance Programme
•  Discounted Health & Fitness Facilities on site at the Stoke Campus
•  Discounted Travel by Rail or Bus, with the option of season tickets loans

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