Operational Lawyer Ref. 3313

TN United Kingdom; London; On-site; GBP 73,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job description

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Department Specialist Roles | Location(s): London | Salary: £73,704 or £94,114 (depending on skills and experience) | Job description

Flexible working: Flexible working options such as compressed hours are encouraged and supported. We also welcome applicants interested in job-sharing and/or part-time work. Working from home is not possible due to the sensitive nature of the work.

About Us

We're MI6, also known as the Secret Intelligence Service (SIS). Our mission is to protect the security and economic wellbeing of the UK from overseas threats such as regional instability, terrorism, and cyber-attacks. Working globally and in close partnership with MI5 and GCHQ, we support the Government by providing secret intelligence. A role in MI6 offers a supportive environment emphasizing teamwork and vital contributions to national security.

The Role

Our operational lawyers work in small, collaborative teams, providing essential support to MI6 operations and capability development. They advise on legislative changes and MI6’s interests in litigation and inquiries. The work is diverse, offering insights into MI6's core activities. Collaborating closely with operational and policy colleagues, they liaise with other government departments, including FCDO, Home Office, MI5, and GCHQ.

We seek a creative, innovative lawyer capable of delivering novel legal solutions to complex, sensitive issues, providing practical, risk-based advice. Responsibilities include advising on applicable laws such as the Intelligence Services Act, Investigatory Powers Act, and others, as well as handling litigation, judicial reviews, inquests, and criminal proceedings. You will also contribute to training our legal and operational teams.

Organized and methodical, you should be able to work independently while being part of a supportive legal team. There are opportunities to collaborate across government departments and external partners. The role involves a standard working pattern with occasional out-of-hours and weekend on-call duties, and potential overseas travel.

About You

You should value integrity, respect, teamwork, and professionalism, with a creative, enthusiastic approach and sound legal judgment. Excellent communication skills are essential, including the ability to explain complex legal concepts clearly to non-legal audiences. Strong client care skills and the ability to build effective relationships are vital. A growth mindset and eagerness to learn are important to stay updated on legal developments and contribute to team skills development.

You must be a fully qualified lawyer (solicitor, barrister, or legal executive) with a current Practicing Certificate in England and Wales, and have approximately 5+ years of relevant legal experience.

Training and Development

MI6 values continuous learning and offers bespoke training to help you integrate into the organization. Opportunities for career progression and lateral movement exist within the legal teams, providing a platform for broader government or national security careers.

Rewards and Benefits

Starting salary of £73,704 or £94,114 depending on experience, plus benefits including:

• 25 days annual leave, rising to 30 days after 5 years, plus 10.5 public and privilege holidays
• Recognition through performance schemes
• Interest-free season ticket loans
• Excellent pension scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Facilities such as gyms, restaurants, and coffee bars at some locations
• Paid parental and adoption leave

Equal Opportunities

MI6 is committed to diversity and inclusion, reflecting the society we serve. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, including under-represented groups such as women, ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and neurodivergent individuals.