Head of International Policy and Engagement
As Head of International Policy and Engagement you will be responsible for leading the Society’s team of regional policy advisers as well as implementing the Society’s business plan on a global scale. The role therefore offers the right candidate an exciting opportunity to help shape the overseas policy work as well as the stakeholder and member engagement strategy of one of the UK’s longest established and most respected professional bodies.
The Head will lead the International Policy team as it seeks to develop strong, strategic relationships with law firms, lawyers and other stakeholders involved in international legal practice. The Head will identify and lead the development of appropriate events, publications and projects that advance the interests of Law Society members internationally and support the implementation of the Society’s business plan.
The Head must have experience at a management level in a similar international policy or engagement role within a complex organisation, successful experience of driving forward projects and campaigns, and experience of managing and overseeing a substantial annual budget. Business development experience will also be a great asset.
Strong cultural awareness is a must, as is an understanding of international public policy and legal issues. Strong written and communication skills, including the ability to represent the Law Society at high profile events is crucial. The candidate will have a track record of collaboration with organisations and with external stakeholders. Foreign language skills are not essential, but would be desirable.
The Head manages a team of 10 staff, including six region-specific policy advisers, three policy assistants and an international co-coordinator. The Head will report to and work closely with the Society’s Head of City and International to manage the team’s annual budget of c. £1 million.
The post will entail overseas travel, as well as attendance at meetings and events outside of regular office hours. Therefore flexibility is essential.
Essential
Managing a team which develops strong policy idea and reports
Ability to research and develop knowledge relating to a variety of different areas of law and practice
Experience of working in a policy or research environment
Strong understanding of the legal and economic environment and the role of solicitors in it
Strong understanding of the legal and economic environment and the role of solicitors in it
Ability to provide advice and support to the profession
Strong written and oral communications skills
Knowledge and understanding of the relevant policy and legislative environment
Ability to represent the Law Society credibly at a senior level
Ability to engage and influence policy development at a senior level across government and the profession, as well as within the Law Society
Project Management skills
Strong cultural awareness and an ability to thrive in a multicultural and multilingual environment
Additionally, we provide a generous flexible benefits package, including gym membership with a tax only cost, an excellent defined contribution pension scheme and an additional 3% of annual basic salary upon successful completion of probation.
This opportunity is closed to applicants.