Head of Legal and Company Secretary
Full-Time, Permanent
Location: Maidenhead, Berkshire (Hybrid / 3 days per week in office)
Salary: £130,000 - £150,000 per annum + bonus opportunity
Dignity is one of the UK’s largest and most dynamic multi-site national businesses and we are embarking on an exciting transformation following a successful takeover and privatisation. With a robust network of 750 sites, we are committed to innovation, investment in technology, and enhancing operational standards. Our rich history since 1812 and our dedication to responsible business practices drive us to offer unparalleled choice and value to our customers. Join us at Dignity and be part of a forward-thinking team poised for significant growth and making a meaningful impact in our industry.
We are seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Legal and CoSec for an exciting opportunity to design, implement and manage the function using their expertise.
As a key leader, you will deliver exceptional legal guidance and strategic support, driving business success. Your expertise will ensure top-tier legal and data protection standards, empowering the business to thrive in a complex landscape. As Company Secretary, you will champion robust corporate governance, providing insightful advice and stewardship to the Group, Executive Directors, and Board, fostering transparency and accountability at the highest levels.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Offer proactive, business-focused legal advice on contracts, regulations, M&A, family disputes, and ad hoc matters.
- Advise, support, and guide on legal queries and draft contracts and documents.
- Identify legal risks in products/services and inform senior management of relevant legal developments.
- Maintain and apply legal policies across the business.
- Develop training materials and conduct sessions for stakeholders.
- Support the Compliance Function on FCA and CMA matters.
- Maintain a panel of external law firms for additional legal support.
- Manage the Group's insurance policies, including Employer Liability, Personal Injury, and Public Liability.
- Provide advice on data protection and GDPR.
- Act as Company Secretary with a pragmatic approach to corporate governance.
- Support the Board and Committees, ensuring timely delivery of packs, schedules, and action logs.
- Oversee the management of the Group’s governance framework and ensure necessary updates and filings.
- Providing leadership and direction to the Legal team. This includes setting clear goals aligned with company objectives, conducting regular performance reviews, addressing skills gaps and fostering a collaborative culture.
You can download the full Job Description at the bottom of this page.
This role is ideal for a candidate who:
- Is a qualified Solicitor or Barrister
- Possesses significant Post-Qualified Experience (PQE)
- Demonstrates extensive expertise in commercial law, contract drafting, and negotiation
- Has prior experience as a Company Secretary (CoSec)
- Exhibits a robust understanding of data protection legislation
- Possesses experience in Financial Services (preferably)
- Has proven experience in stakeholder management at all levels, including across multiple locations
- Shows demonstrated leadership capabilities
What we provide to you:
- Annual salary of up to £150,000 per annum
- Car Allowance
- Bonus Opportunity
- BUPA Private Healthcare Scheme (Family cover)
- 27 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays.
What are the next steps?
To apply for this position, please click the 'Apply' button to submit your application. A member of our Talent Acquisition Team will contact you shortly.
FCA Statement
Please note that this role is subject to meeting regulatory requirements. As an FCA-regulated organisation, we are committed to adopting the highest standards and we do this by employing individuals with the appropriate skills, experience and integrity to protect both the company and our clients. If you are considered for a role, you will be providing your permission for us to conduct the relevant checks and assessments that will be carried out during the recruitment and onboarding process. The nature of the checks will depend on whether the role is subject to the Senior Managers and Certification Regime (SMCR).
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement
Our Vision is to connect with our clients, colleagues, company and communities based on our principles whilst celebrating our differences.
We aim to empower leaders and colleagues to seek out and understand new voices and perspectives; to be vocal about inequity and exclusion, and to take decisive, informed and bold action to promote inclusion and belonging.
Any unsolicited submissions from agencies will be accepted as a direct application from the candidate and no fees will be payable.
We reserve the right depending on application numbers to close or extend the closing dates for positions; we would therefore recommend an early application.
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