Legal Counsel(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Job Description

About the Role

The University of Sussex is seeking a proactive and skilled Legal Counsel to provide timely, practical, and solutions-focused legal advice across a wide range of issues affecting the University.

As part of the General Counsel, Governance and Compliance Division, you will work collaboratively with academic and professional colleagues, contributing to sound decision-making, strong compliance culture, and effective risk management across the institution.

This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified solicitor or barrister seeking to gain or expand experience in the higher education sector.

Key Responsibilities

Provide expert legal advice and guidance across various areas including public law, contract law, employment law, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance.

Support the University’s governance and risk management framework, ensuring that decisions align with institutional objectives and regulatory requirements.

• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, agreements, and other legal documents.
• Identify potential legal risks and propose proactive, pragmatic solutions.
• Contribute to training and awareness activities that promote compliance and good legal practice among University staff.
• Work collaboratively with internal stakeholders to enable effective, risk-aware decision-making.

About You

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

• Qualified Solicitor or Barrister in England and Wales with a current practising certificate.
• Strong knowledge of legal areas relevant to higher education, including:
• Public and administrative law
• Contract and commercial law
• Employment law
• Intellectual property and regulatory law
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to convey complex legal issues clearly and concisely.
• Strong analytical, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to professional development (CPD) and supporting legal awareness across the institution.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and document management tools.

Desirable:

• Previous experience in the higher education or public sector environment.
• Understanding of higher education governance structures and compliance obligations.

About the Division

The General Counsel, Governance and Compliance Division ensures that the University operates with integrity, accountability, and legal soundness. The team supports:

• High-quality governance and decision-making processes;
• Compliance with legislative and regulatory frameworks;
• Effective management of institutional risks; and
• Promotion of a culture of good governance across the University.

Why Join the University of Sussex?

The University of Sussex is a globally recognised, research-led institution located beside the beautiful South Downs National Park. The 150-acre campus offers an exceptional working environment with excellent transport links — just a five-minute walk from Falmer Station and easily accessible by bus or cycle routes.

Benefits include:

• Competitive salary and pension scheme
• Flexible and hybrid working opportunities
• Access to professional learning and development
• Cycle-to-work scheme and sustainable travel options
• Inclusive and collaborative campus culture

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Visa and Sponsorship Information

This role has been assigned SOC Code 2419 (Legal professionals not elsewhere classified) and is eligible for visa sponsorship under specific conditions:

If your first Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) was issued on or before 3 April 2024, the salary of £38,784 (Grade 7.1) meets the threshold of £33,400.

If issued after 3 April 2024, or you are relocating to the UK, you may need to be appointed at Grade 7.4 (£41,700) or meet the salary requirement via tradeable points.

How to Apply

Submit your application via the University of Sussex job portal, including:

• A cover letter detailing your suitability for the role
• A current CV
  Applications close 23 November 2025 at 3:59 PM.

Equal Opportunities

The University of Sussex values diversity and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

Work for the University must be undertaken within the UK.