Legal Counsel

Contextual Overview

The Open University is hiring a full-time Legal Counsel to join its in-house legal team based in Milton Keynes, England, United Kingdom. The role involves supporting teaching, research, commercial partnerships, and strategic initiatives across the university by delivering high-quality legal advice.

Key Eligibility Criteria

• Qualified Solicitor or equivalent.
• Minimum of 2 years’ post-qualification experience (PQE) in a legal role.
• Experience in higher education and/or charity sectors is preferred.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage workload under time pressure and adapt to client needs.

Responsibilities & Scope of Work

• Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating legal agreements (goods and services, consultancy, research funding, national and international academic collaborations, and data sharing).
• Undertaking legal, compliance, and governance research.
• Advising on legally contentious matters, disputes, and managing outsourced litigation.
• Assuring compliance with Office for Students, Competition and Markets Authority, and public procurement requirements.
• Providing advice on intellectual property (copyright, trademarks, and internet domain rights) and student appeals/complaints.

Stipend, Compensation & Mode

Base Pay Range: £47,389.00/yr - £56,535.00/yr (paid annually, alongside comprehensive benefits including 33 days annual leave, pension scheme, and staff fee waivers).

Application Procedure & Required Documents

Interested candidates can apply directly through the official job portal or contact the recruitment team for support:

• Review the complete job description and submit applications via the official application link.
• For queries or application adjustments, contact via phone or email quoting the reference number.

Official Notification & Contact Information

• Official Portal: The Open University Job Posting
• Contact Email: careers@open.ac.uk
• Contact Phone: 01908 541111