Job Description

REF: IRC320208
DEPARTMENT: Department of Finance
SALARY: The remuneration package will equate to 44,134 per annum.
LOCATION: Belfast
The way in which complaints against members of the legal profession are handled is changing, to be led by lay people rather than legal professionals themselves. An exciting opportunity now exists to be at the forefront of that change, in the role of Legal Services Oversight Commissioner.
The Commissioner will oversee complaints handling systems and have a statutory consultative role in relation to other aspects of regulation. That includes inputting to all new rules or regulations made by the Law Society or the Council of the Bar, and acting on Departmental requests to examine any matter relating to the regulation or organisation of the relevant professions.
The Department of Finance, in consultation with the Lady Chief Justice, is now seeking to identify a person for appointment as the Commissioner.
Please note that under the terms of the Legal Complaints and Regulation Act (NI) 2016, the appointee must not be, and must never have been, a solicitor or barrister.
This is a part time appointment, with a commitment envisaged to be between 2 and 3 days per week. The term of appointment will be for a period of 3 years, starting on the date of appointment.
The remuneration package will equate to 44,134 per annum.
For more detailed information on the role and person specification, please click on the 'Candidate Information Booklet' link below. In order to apply for this position, please click on the 'Apply for this job online' link below to register to this vacancy and to submit an online application.
Alternative formats such as Braille, large print, audio etc. are available on request. All reasonable adjustments will be made to accommodate the needs of applicants/candidates with a disability.
All requests must include your name, address and reference number IRC320208.
Completed application forms must be returned to arrive not later than 12:00 noon (UK time) on Friday 5th December 2025.
Applicants invited for interview are eligible for reimbursement of reasonable travelling expenses incurred within Northern Ireland. It is anticipated that interviews will be held in Belfast.
Equality of Opportunity:
The Department is committed to the principle of public appointments within a merit based process, with independent assessment, openness and transparency of process. The Department is also committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified applicants irrespective of religious belief, gender, race, political opinion, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or dependent status.

Skills Required