Head of Legal Operations – Leading NI Institution [REF#149056]

Exclusive Role – Head of Legal Operations – Leading NI Organisation – Belfast

Conekt Legal is working exclusively with a large, complex and prestigious NI organisation to recruit a Head of Legal Operations for a senior leadership role within its in‑house legal function. This is an exciting newly created role in their growing in‑house legal team.

This is a high-profile role offering the opportunity to shape legal strategy, manage legal risk, oversee external advisers, and embed best practice across the organisation. You will work closely with executive-level stakeholders and contributing to the long‑term success of a complex organisation.

Why this role?

Senior leadership role with real influence – working closely with the General Counsel and senior stakeholders to shape legal strategy and manage risk across a complex organisation.

Breadth and variety of work – exposure to high‑value commercial, governance, employment and regulatory matters in a dynamic, multi‑faceted environment.

Opportunity to lead and develop – responsibility for building, mentoring and evolving a legal services team, with scope to drive best practice and innovation.

Stability with impact – a permanent, well‑remunerated in‑house role offering long‑term career progression and the chance to make a meaningful organisational contribution.

The Role

Reporting to the General Counsel, the Head of Legal Operations will play a pivotal role in delivering high‑quality, timely and pragmatic legal support across the organisation. You will lead and develop the Legal Services team, ensuring legal advice is aligned with strategic priorities and delivered efficiently across a broad portfolio including contracts, employment, governance, commercial activity and regulatory compliance.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading, managing and developing a multi-disciplinary legal team
• Providing expert legal advice across a wide range of matters including commercial contracts, employment law, governance, procurement, IP and litigation
• Supporting the General Counsel with legal strategy, risk management and compliance frameworks
• Managing external legal advisers and the legal services budget
• Leading on contract management processes, policies, templates and training
• Advising on corporate governance and company secretarial matters
• Deputising for the General Counsel as required

About you

You will be a qualified solicitor or barrister authorised to practise in Northern Ireland, with substantial post‑qualification experience gained in a complex regulatory or institutional environment. You will bring proven experience of leading legal teams, managing legal risk, influencing senior stakeholders and delivering practical, solution‑focused advice at a senior level.

Experience within higher education, the public sector or a large in‑house environment would be advantageous, but is not essential.

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