Senior Legal Counsel (0075-25) - Derby, DE22 1GB

TieTalent; Derby; On-site; GBP 58,000 - 74,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Legal Counsel to provide expert legal advice on complex, high-value issues while leading a dedicated team. This role is pivotal in managing legal risks associated with commercial contracts, intellectual property, and corporate governance. You will collaborate with senior stakeholders to deliver pragmatic, solutions-focused guidance that aligns with strategic goals. The position offers a generous benefits package, including 42 days of annual leave and a supportive working environment, making it an excellent opportunity for a qualified solicitor or barrister looking to make a significant impact in the higher education sector.

Benefits

Generous annual leave of 42 days

Local Government Pension Scheme

Wellbeing benefits

Private health insurance

Flexible working environment

Onsite gym

Staff discounts

Holiday purchase

Cycle scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Significant post-qualification experience in advising on complex legal matters.
• Experience in commercial law and contracting is crucial.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on complex, high-value strategic issues.
• Lead the Legal Services team and manage solicitors and support staff.

Skills

Commercial Law

Contracting

Leadership

Communication Skills

Public Sector Legal Issues

Education

Qualified Solicitor or Barrister

Job description

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About the University

We have one simple promise – to make a positive impact. Through our ground-breaking research, teaching excellence and commitment to sustainable living, we are changing lives for the better.

The University of Derby is a modern university with a modern outlook. Everything we do is driven by delivering excellence and opportunities for our students, our staff and our region.

We have some of the best university facilities in the UK and achieve outstanding results for our teaching and research. We have been awarded Gold in the prestigious Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 – making it one of the top universities in the country recognized for its outstanding student experience and outcomes.

Financially strong and seriously ambitious, we offer our employees an inclusive culture centered around staff wellbeing, with support and encouragement to build a rewarding career and develop skills.

About the Department

Legal Services is part of the Legal, Governance & Assurance Services department, a central risk management and professional support function. It includes Legal Services, Governance Services, and Assurance Services, playing a key role in managing legal, regulatory, financial, and reputational risks across the University.

The department provides high-quality, pragmatic, and commercially focused legal advice on complex and strategic matters, supporting the University’s ambitions and ensuring robust legal frameworks.

About the Role

This senior position involves providing expert legal advice on complex, high-value, strategic issues and leading the Legal Services team. Reporting to the Director of Legal, Governance & Assurance Services, you will manage solicitors and support staff, oversee external legal advisers, and ensure high standards of legal risk management.

The role covers legal issues related to commercial contracts, research collaborations, intellectual property, procurement, corporate governance, and compliance. You will work closely with senior stakeholders and provide pragmatic, solutions-focused advice aligned with strategic goals.

Candidate Requirements

The ideal candidate is a qualified solicitor or barrister with significant post-qualification experience in advising on complex legal matters, especially in commercial law and contracting. Leadership experience, excellent communication skills, and knowledge of higher education or public sector legal issues are advantageous.

Benefits

• Generous annual leave of 42 days including bank holidays
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Wellbeing benefits, family policies, sick pay, Employee Assistance Programme
• Staff discounts, onsite gym, private health insurance, holiday purchase, cycle scheme
• Flexible working environment and development opportunities

Application Details

Interview date: 2nd June 2025

Closing date: 18 May 2025

Salary: £58,863 to £73,579, with scope for progression up to £84,616

Location: Derby, England