Job Description

VC5043-25-157-R
Are you an experienced legal professional with a passion for corporate governance, integrity, and supporting strategic leadership at the highest level? This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact at the University of Brighton.
We are seeking a Head of Legal Services and Deputy University Secretary to serve as the University's principal legal adviser and a key figure in shaping and supporting effective governance. This senior role supports the Vice-Chancellor, Chair of the Board, University Secretary, and Executive Board, advising on a broad range of legal, regulatory, and compliance matters.
You will be responsible for:

• Delivering high-quality, pragmatic legal advice across areas including corporate governance, contracts, student matters, data protection, safeguarding, and more.
• Leading on legal oversight for major institutional projects and external stakeholder relationships.
• Providing strategic direction on legal risk, student complaints, freedom of speech, Prevent duties, and governance compliance.
• Acting as Deputy Clerk to the Board and deputising for the University Secretary when required.
• Supporting the Board of Governors and its committees, ensuring they operate within best practice and regulatory frameworks.

We are looking for someone who:

• Is a UK-qualified solicitor with significant post-qualification experience in advising complex public or charitable organisations.
• Has a strong background in corporate governance, contract negotiation, legal compliance, and stakeholder engagement.
• Brings exceptional communication skills, political sensitivity, and sound judgment.
• Can manage competing demands in a fast-paced environment.
• Has a deep understanding of the regulatory environment for higher education, or the ability to quickly develop it.

This is a full-time, permanent role, based in Brighton (Moulsecoomb campus), with hybrid working options in line with University policy.
If you are ready to take on a strategic and rewarding leadership role that shapes the legal and governance framework of a forward-looking institution, we encourage you to apply.
For informal enquiries, please contact Anna Dulic-Sills (a.dulic-sills@brighton.ac.uk). Applications close on 19 August 2025.
Further details:
The University is committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive environment for all staff regardless of age, disability, family or caring responsibilities, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief (including non-belief), sex and sexual orientation. We embrace equality and diversity in our working, learning, research and teaching environment and are committed to maintaining a supportive and inclusive community. We particularly encourage applicants from Minority Ethnic backgrounds because the University is under-represented by Minority Ethnic staff.
For the vast majority of our roles we operate an agile working system with time split between working on campus and at the employee's home. It is the University's expectation that home working will take place within the UK.
Further information about working for us, as well as the wide range of benefits we offer, can be found in the

Skills Required