Head of Legal and Compliance

Bayer CropScience Limited; Reading; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global agro-science company in Reading is seeking a qualified solicitor or barrister to lead the UK/Ireland Legal Team. The role involves managing legal compliance and providing strategic advice to senior leadership. Candidates should possess strong business acumen, proven business partnering skills, and a passion for mentoring team members. Bayer offers competitive compensation, professional development opportunities, and a supportive workplace culture promoting diversity and inclusion. Join us to make a significant impact in a community driven to solve global challenges.

Benefits

Competitive compensation package

28 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Private Healthcare and pension scheme

Wellness programs and support

Flexible and Hybrid working

Professional growth support

Qualifications

• Qualified solicitor or barrister in the UK with significant post‑qualification experience, preferably in healthcare.
• Strong business acumen with a customer‑focused and pragmatic approach.
• Demonstrated ability to partner with businesses.

Responsibilities

• Provide direction and support to the UK/Ireland Legal Team.
• Translate intricate legal matters into clear strategic advice for senior leadership.
• Manage all litigation processes in the UK/Ireland.
• Ensure compliance with corporate governance standards.
• Foster a culture of growth and development within the LPC function.

Skills

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills

Interpersonal Leadership

Effective Communication

Business Understanding

Proven Business Partnering

Passion for People Development

Education

Relevant University Degree

Legal Qualification: Qualified solicitor or barrister in the UK

Job description

At Bayer we’re visionaries, driven to solve the world’s toughest challenges and striving for a world where ,Health for all, Hunger for none’ is no longer a dream, but a real possibility. We’re doing it with energy, curiosity and sheer dedication, always learning from unique perspectives of those around us, expanding our thinking, growing our capabilities and redefining ‘impossible’. There are so many reasons to join us. If you’re hungry to build a varied and meaningful career in a community of brilliant and diverse minds to make a real difference, there’s only one choice.

Bayer is an organisation where decisions are made together and where innovation cycles are in 90 days sprints. Our operating model (Dynamic Shared Ownership (we call it DSO) is a reimagined way of operating a multinational company which moves at speed and scale with the goal of delivering on our vision.

Being part of #TeamBayer means that you are part of our vision and of our future – delivering to our farmers, patients, and consumers.

In this role you are accountable for all legal and corporate compliance activities in the UK/ Ireland and you will protect the assets and reputation of the Bayer Group in the UK/ Ireland. You will help to ensure compliance with all applicable local laws and regulations.

TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the UK/Ireland Legal Team: Provide direction and support to the team, ensuring alignment with Dynamic Shared Ownership principles and effective operation.
• Simplify Complex Legal Issues: Translate intricate legal matters into clear, actionable strategic advice for senior leadership.
• Oversee Litigation Management: Manage all litigation processes in the UK/Ireland, ensuring appropriate representation and risk assessment.
• Facilitate Corporate Governance: Ensure compliance with corporate governance standards and support UK/Ireland Boards in meeting their obligations.
• Promote People Development: Foster a culture of growth and development within the LPC function, mentoring team members in line with the organization principles; Visionary, Architect, Catalyst, Coach.
• Build Global Networks: Establish and maintain formal and informal networks across the LPC function to share best practices and enhance collaboration.
• Advise on Strategic Business Goals: Provide legal guidance to related Businesses to ensure alignment with Bayer’s strategic objectives.
• Engage in Strategic Planning: Actively participate in long‑term planning and project management, contributing to the organization's change initiatives.

WHO YOU ARE

• Relevant University Degree
• Legal Qualification: Qualified solicitor or barrister in the UK with significant post‑qualification experience, preferably in healthcare.
• Business Understanding: Strong business acumen with a customer‑focused and pragmatic approach.
• Proven Business Partnering: Demonstrated ability to partner with businesses and serve as a role model for VACC Leadership (Visionary, Architect, Catalyst, Coach).
• Analytical and Problem‑Solving Skills: Strong conceptual and analytical abilities with effective problem‑solving skills.
• Interpersonal Leadership: Excellent interpersonal skills with experience in leading teams and unifying diverse viewpoints.
• Passion for People Development: A strong interest in mentoring and developing team members.
• Effective Communication: Exceptional oral and written communication skills, capable of simplifying complex legal issues for senior leadership.

WHAT BAYER OFFERS YOU

“Be You” at Bayer where you have the opportunity to be part of our culture influencing Health for all and Hunger for none.

We value our employees and believe that rewarding your contributions is essential to our shared vision. Discover the exceptional benefits awaiting you as a valued member of #Teambayer

• Competitive compensation package consisting of an attractive base salary and annual company bonus.
• Individual bonus can also be granted for top Talent Impact
• 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Private Healthcare, generous pension scheme and Life Insurance
• Wellness programs and support
• Employee discount scheme
• International career possibilities
• Flexible and Hybrid working
• Help with home office equipment
• Volunteering days
• Support for professional growth in a wide range of learning and development opportunities
• We welcome and embrace diversity providing an inclusive working environment

The best possible work‑life balance is of great importance to us, which is why we support flexible hybrid working model.

• #LI-UK
• #Hybrid

Bayer welcomes applications from all individuals, regardless of age, disability, gender identity/expression, family status, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. We are committed to treating all applicants fairly and without discrimination. We continue to progressively embrace and adopt actions to advance our Diversity Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) commitments and aspirations, #ForBetter.

Bayer is committed to providing access and support for all individuals with disabilities and / or long term conditions - during the application process and beyond. Let us know if there is anything about the recruitment process that you would like to discuss, in particular if there are any changes or adjustments that would make it easier for you to apply please contact [e-mail].

INTERESTED IN THIS VACANCY?

Are you looking for a new challenge? Apply online by sending us your resume and cover letter (in 1 document). Do you have a question or do you want to learn more about the position? You can always contact Klazien Flapper, Sr. Talent Advisor, [e-mail].

What can you expect? The application process consists of an interview with the Hiring Manager and HR Manager.

• Application Period: Until December 19
• Reference Code: 857703
• Division: Enabling Functions
• Location: United Kingdom : Berkshire : Reading
• Functional Area: Law, Patents, Compliance & Insurances
• Position Grade: VS 3
• Employment Type: Regular
• Work Time: Full‑time