Senior Commercial Lawyer

The University of Wolverhampton is proud of its rich heritage as a post-1992 institution, transforming lives through education, research, and innovation. As we continue to grow we are seeking a Senior Commercial Lawyer to join our in house Legal Services team.

This is a unique opportunity to be part of a dynamic and forward thinking university, supporting a wide range of commercial activities, both at home and abroad, and strategic projects that make a real difference to students, staff, and our wider communities.

As our Senior Commercial Lawyer, you will play a key role in:

• Leading and advising on high value, complex commercial contracts, including procurement, partnerships, collaborations, joint ventures, and research agreements.
• Advising on intellectual property, data protection, and contractual risk.
• Supporting strategic university initiatives such as campus developments, international partnerships, and enterprise activities.
• Providing legal guidance to senior leadership and academic teams across the University.
• Managing external legal providers and mentoring junior legal colleagues.

You will be a qualified solicitor or barrister in England & Wales with:

• Significant post qualification experience in commercial law, ideally including time in house or in the public/education sector.
• Strong negotiation and drafting skills, with a pragmatic and solution focused approach.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills - able to build trust and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• A commitment to the values of a modern, inclusive, and accessible university.

Experience in higher education, public procurement, or charity law is desirable but not essential.

At the University of Wolverhampton, you'll be part of a purpose driven institution focused on impact, inclusion, and innovation. We offer:

• Flexible and hybrid working options
• Generous annual leave and pension scheme
• Career development and CPD opportunities
• A collaborative and supportive environment where your legal expertise will shape the future of our institution

You may be eligible to choose from a number of benefits during your appointment, subject to any rules applicable to the relevant benefit (as amended from time to time). Further details of these benefits are available on the intranet.

We believe employees should be recognised for their hard work and contribution to the University's growth and success and offer an attractive range of competitive benefits to all staff:

Your Benefits:

• Competitive salaries
• Standard Life Pension scheme - with employer contribution of up to 12% to the University's defined contribution scheme.
• Long Service Recognition - £200 gift voucher, certificate, and afternoon tea with Vice Chancellor for 25 & 40 years of service.
• Free Will Writing Service - Complimentary will drafting for employees and their partners.
• IT & Mobile Discounts - EE Perk (20% off for family & friends) & software discounts.

Supporting Your Health & Wellbeing

• Wellbeing and Mental Health Support - 24/7 access to EAP service, free counselling sessions, wellbeing support resources and Occupational Health Service.
• Gym memberships discounts - at our Walsall Campus and discounts at WV Active sites in Wolverhampton.
• Eyecare Support - Free eVoucher for eye tests and glasses contribution.
• Flu Vouchers - Free flu vaccinations for staff.
• Paycare Health Benefit Plan - Covers optical, dental, physiotherapy, and personal accident insurance.
• Chaplaincy & Prayer Rooms - Access to multi faith chaplaincy services.

Valuing You:

• Generous Annual Leave (see table below)
• Flexible & Agile Working - Flexible and Hybrid working arrangements.
• Free On site Parking - available across campuses
• Cycle Benefits Scheme - Save up to 42% on a bike & accessories via salary sacrifice.
• Employee Discounts - Savings on groceries, fashion, and entertainment.
• Travel Discounts - Up to 10% off holidays through Sodexo Circles.

Training and Development

• Staff Network and Inclusion - Access to support networks and events with our LGBTQ+, Global Majority, Disability, and Women's networks.
• Library Access - Staff have access to books and resources at our onsite libraries.
• Staff Scholarship Scheme - Funding for part time higher education, up to PhD level
• Leadership and Management Development - Access to training opportunities to support you with advancing in your career.