Experienced Legal Counsel – Specialist Education and Care Services, Leading UK Provider of SEN Education and Residential Care
Introduction to Aspris Children's Services Aspris Children's Services is a renowned provider of specialist education and residential care services in the UK, dedicated to transforming the lives of young people aged 5-25 years. With a strong focus on empowering individuals to achieve their potential, we offer a comprehensive range of services, including specialist schools, colleges, children's homes, and fostering agencies. Our team of over 3,000 highly trained colleagues is committed to delivering exceptional care and support, working in partnership with each young person, their families, and the professionals who support them. About the Role We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Legal Counsel to join our team, providing outstanding and accessible legal services to all areas of the business. As a key member of our team, you will lead a team of legal and commercial professionals, advising internal stakeholders on a variety of legal, commercial, employment, and compliance risks, business strategies, and other issues. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the legal budget, proactively monitoring budget spend, and using KPIs and other metrics to drive success. Key Responsibilities Provide expert legal advice and guidance to internal stakeholders on a range of legal, commercial, employment, and compliance issues Lead a team of legal and commercial professionals, providing coaching, mentoring, and development opportunities to ensure the team's success Develop and implement effective legal strategies to support business objectives, minimizing risk and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations Manage the legal budget, monitoring spend and using KPIs and other metrics to drive efficiency and effectiveness Collaborate with colleagues across the business to support on a wide range of legal issues, building confidence and capability at all levels Stay up-to-date with changes in legislation, regulations, and best practices, ensuring the business remains compliant and ahead of the curve Essential Qualifications and Experience To be considered for this role, you will be a qualified solicitor with at least 5 years' post-qualification experience (PQE) or equivalent experience, admitted to practice in the UK. You will have a strong background in drafting, negotiating, and advising on commercial contracts, as well as experience and knowledge of employment law. Excellent knowledge of data protection laws, ICO guidance, and relevant codes of practice is also essential. Preferred Qualifications and Experience Previous experience working with education or children's services, or working with Ofsted/CQC (or regional equivalent) regulated entities, would be highly beneficial. A strong understanding of the SEN education and care sector, as well as experience of working in a similar role, would also be advantageous. Skills and Competencies To succeed in this role, you will possess excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with colleagues at all levels. You will be a strategic thinker, able to analyze complex legal issues and develop effective solutions. A strong independent voice, with the ability to challenge people and teams to do the right thing, whilst building confidence and capability, is also essential. Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits As a member of our team, you will have access to a range of career growth opportunities and learning benefits, including professional development programs, training, and mentoring. You will be part of a dynamic and supportive team, committed to delivering exceptional care and support to young people with special educational needs and vulnerable young people. Work Environment and Company Culture At Aspris Children's Services, we nurture a culture of continuous quality improvement, focusing on delivering excellent care and support to the young people we are responsible for. Our team is passionate about transforming lives, and we are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment that encourages collaboration, creativity, and innovation. Compensation, Perks, and Benefits In recognition of your expertise and experience, we offer a competitive salary and a range of benefits, including a comprehensive pension scheme, life assurance, and access to exclusive discounts and rewards. You will also have the opportunity to work with a leading provider of specialist education and residential care services, making a real difference to the lives of young people with special educational needs and vulnerable young people. Conclusion If you are a motivated and experienced legal professional, looking for a new challenge and the opportunity to make a real difference, we encourage you to apply for this exciting role. As a Legal Counsel with Aspris Children's Services, you will be part of a dynamic and supportive team, committed to delivering exceptional care and support to young people with special educational needs and vulnerable young people. Please submit your application today to take the first step towards a rewarding and challenging career with a leading provider of specialist education and residential care services. How to Apply To find out more about the role, please contact our recruitment partners Joe Joyce and Natasha Parmar at Finegreen. Applications close on Sunday, 27 October 2024, with pre-shortlisting interviews taking place w/c 4 November 2024 and final interviews w/c 18 November 2024. Apply for this job