Group Solicitor and Secretary to the HE Governing Body

Hartlepool (with responsibilities across Hartlepool and Middlesbrough campuses and hybrid working opportunities)

The Northern School of Art is seeking to appoint an exceptional Group Solicitor and Secretary to the HE Governing Body at an exciting and transformational period in the institution's history. As the School continues its journey as a Higher Education Corporation and progresses towards university title, this newly established role offers a unique opportunity to shape the legal, governance and compliance framework of one of the UK's leading specialist arts institutions.

We are seeking a qualified Solicitor entitled to practise in England and Wales, with significant post-qualification experience and a strong understanding of governance, regulatory compliance and commercial law. The successful candidate will have experience advising senior leaders or boards, drafting and negotiating complex agreements and delivering clear, pragmatic legal advice. Experience within the Higher Education, Further Education, charity or public sector, together with knowledge of the Office for Students regulatory framework and governance best practice, would be advantageous.

The successful candidate will undertake a dual role, serving as both Group Solicitor (0.5 FTE) and Secretary to the HE Governing Body (0.5 FTE). You will provide expert advice on legal and regulatory matters while supporting governance best practice, regulatory compliance and strategic decision-making.

What will you get if you join us?

• ü Work for an institution that supports work-life balance, and cares for the wellbeing of staff;
• ü Staff development opportunities;
• ü Generous annual leave;
• ü Free confidential counselling service and physiotherapy;
• ü Free eye tests and contribution towards glasses for VDU use;
• ü Free IT products including Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Cloud;
• ü Professional fees paid by the School;
• ü Staff recognition awards
• ü Free car parking and access to other staff benefits; and
• ü Access to the Local Government Pension scheme

To download the application pack, please click the 'Apply' button above. 

Closing date for receipt of completed applications 31^st August 2026 Please send your completed application to jobs@NorthernArt.ac.uk

The Northern School of Art recognises that it has a statutory and moral duty to promote and safeguard the welfare of its students who are under the age of 18 and of its vulnerable adults.

This role is exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.

If successful an Enhanced DBS Check (with barred list) will be required. Please note, it is an offence to apply for the role if the applicant is barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children.

For Teaching Staff & Technician Demonstrators Prohibition checks will be carried out for successful applicants.

Additionally, as part of the School’s shortlisting process, an online search will be carried out on all shortlisted candidates.

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