Director of Corporate and Legal Services

Cardiff University was established in 1883. Our motto, Gwirionedd, Undod a Chytgord - ‘Truth, Unity and Concord’ - sets out our founding commitment to work together to make a positive and lasting difference to our communities and continues to express our commitment today. We are one of the largest universities in the UK and a member of the Russell Group. Our vision is to be a world-leading, research-excellent, and educationally outstanding global university with a transformative social, cultural and economic impact for Cardiff, Wales, the UK and the world. We are firmly grounded in our sense of place. As the largest university in Wales – and a major employer, with more than 7,000 staff – we work with society, industry and government to help overcome the most urgent challenges of our times.

Now is an exciting time to join the university, following the recent arrival of our new Vice-Chancellor, Professor Wendy Larner who took up her position in September 2023. The first woman in the history of Cardiff University to hold this position, Professor Larner’s leadership marks the start of a new phase of strategic development for the University.   

We are now seeking to appoint an exceptional leader to the role of Director of Corporate and Legal Services. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer & University Secretary, this role will provide overall leadership and guidance for legal, assurance and governance matters for the University. This position is key to developing and executing the University’s governance, risk and assurance strategies, providing pragmatic advice to key stakeholders in the institution, including the Vice-Chancellor, Chief Operating Officer & University Secretary and members of the University Executive Board, Council and Senate.

Candidates will need to demonstrate proven strategic leadership experience within large and complex organisations. They will be able to evidence a strong track record of delivering professional, solutions-focused legal advice and guidance at a senior level in addition to interpreting legislation and being able to effectively oversee its implementation. Furthermore, they will possess a professional qualification in legal practice and will have a deep knowledge and understanding of charity and trust law, governance principles and information law.

The closing date for applications is at 9am BST on Monday 29th April 2024.  

Location: Cardiff  

Salary: Cardiff University will offer an attractive salary, commensurate with experience, for a highly talented postholder in this role. Cardiff offers 37 days per annum of annual leave, and a USS pension. Relocation expenses (up to a maximum of £8,000) will be available for candidates moving to Cardiff.  

Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive working environment. We believe this can be achieved through attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse range of staff from many different backgrounds.  We therefore welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of sex, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, trans identity, relationship status, religion or belief, caring responsibilities, or age.