Job Description
Head of Legal Compliance (COLP)
Location: North West (Hybrid)
Reports to: Chief Financial Officer
Salary: c.£140,000 + Bonus + Benefits
We are seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Legal Compliance (COLP) to join a growing, ambitious law firm. This is a senior appointment, central to maintaining the highest ethical and regulatory standards while the firm continues its growth.
This role goes beyond technical compliance. We are looking for a leader who can integrate regulatory discipline into a collaborative, people-focused culture.
A truly exciting time to join this law firm that is scaling with ambitious growth plans and where they put their people at the heart of their business.
Key Responsibilities:
* Regulatory Leadership: Act as the firm’s principal contact with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), managing notifications, audits, and official communications.
* Risk Strategy: Define regulatory risk over a 1–3-year horizon, anticipate changes, and adjust policies proactively.
* Cultural Integration: Promote a sustainable culture of compliance, ethics, and professional conduct throughout the firm.
* Policy and Oversight: Conduct audits, risk assessments, and maintain policies to ensure regulatory adherence and operational clarity.
* Reporting: Prepare high-level compliance reports for the Board, highlighting risks and remediation actions.
* Judgement and Influence: Balance regulatory requirements with commercial objectives, providing practical guidance across the business.
Candidate Profile:
We are looking for a meticulous, confident professional with strategic leadership experience and a strong alignment with a people-focused, values-driven culture.
Essential Requirements:
* In-depth knowledge of SRA Standards and Regulations, Legal Services Act 2007, and broader compliance frameworks.
* Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a COLP role or equivalent compliance leadership position within a legal environment.
* Exceptional analytical and communication skills, able to translate complex regulations into clear, actionable advice.
* Ability to influence senior stakeholders and foster firm-wide accountability.
* Experience with compliance systems, risk registers, policy documentation, and ISO frameworks (ISO9001, ISO27001, etc.).
* Must be a registered lawyer of England and Wales, a Registered European Lawyer, or registered with the Bar Standards Board.
* Qualified ISO Internal Auditor or demonstrable experience with ISO auditing principles.
Why Join?
* Work in a firm where compliance is seen as a strategic advantage.
* Join a values-driven, human-centric culture with a focus on professional growth and employee wellbeing.
* Shape and embed compliance strategy in an ambitious, expanding environment.
* Enjoy a competitive salary and benefits reflecting the seniority of the role.