Legal Counsel(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)
Job Description
About the Role
The University of Sussex is seeking a qualified and motivated Legal Counsel to join its General Counsel, Governance and Compliance Division.
In this role, you will provide clear, practical, and solution-focused legal advice across a range of matters affecting the University. You’ll work closely with both academic and professional services colleagues, helping to manage legal risk, support sound decision-making, and promote compliance across the institution.
This position offers an excellent opportunity for a qualified solicitor or barrister seeking to move into an in-house legal role or transition into the higher education sector. It is equally suited to experienced higher education practitioners looking for a new challenge.
Key Responsibilities
Provide timely and pragmatic legal advice on a variety of issues, including contract law, public law, employment law, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance.
- Support and guide colleagues on legal risk management and best practice.
- Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, agreements, and policies.
- Assist with governance and compliance matters across the University.
- Contribute to the development of internal legal awareness and training for staff.
- Ensure all advice and decisions align with University policies and UK legislation.
About You
You will be a qualified solicitor or barrister in England and Wales with a current practising certificate.
You’ll combine strong technical legal expertise with excellent communication and interpersonal skills. The ability to balance strategic thinking with practical problem-solving is essential.
Essential qualifications and skills:
- Qualified solicitor or barrister with a current practising certificate (England and Wales).
- Strong understanding of legal areas relevant to higher education (public law, contracts, employment, IP, regulatory law).
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong planning, analytical, and organisational abilities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
- Commitment to continuous professional development (CPD) and promoting legal awareness across teams.
About the Division
The General Counsel, Governance and Compliance Division provides legal, governance, information management, and risk management expertise across the University.
The team supports effective governance and high-quality decision-making while ensuring compliance with key legislative and regulatory frameworks.
Why Work at the University of Sussex
The University of Sussex offers a collaborative and inspiring environment set within a stunning campus on the edge of the South Downs National Park, just minutes from Brighton.
Benefits include:
- A competitive salary and pension scheme.
- Excellent professional development and training opportunities.
- Access to wellbeing and employee support programmes.
- Beautiful 150-acre campus with strong transport links, including a train station (Falmer) just five minutes’ walk away.
- Cycle-to-work and sustainable travel schemes.
Visa Sponsorship Information
This role is eligible for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship under the SOC code 2419 (Legal Professionals Not Elsewhere Classified), subject to individual circumstances.
If your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) was issued on or before 3 April 2024, the Grade 7.1 salary (£38,784) meets the visa requirement (£33,400).
If issued after 3 April 2024, or if you are a new applicant relocating to the UK, you must meet the £41,700 threshold (Grade 7.4) or qualify via tradeable points.
Appointments above the starting point will depend on experience.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit the University of Sussex Jobs Portal
and submit your online application before the closing date
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The University of Sussex values the diversity of its staff and students and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment.
We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, particularly those currently underrepresented in higher education.
