Locum Solicitor (Higher Education & Data Protection) – ASAP Start – Up to £55 per hour umbrella – Initial 6 months – South East

Venn Group’s specialist Legal team is currently recruiting for a Locum Solicitor (Higher Education & Data Protection) with a University in the South East. The role will include providing specialist legal advice across a broad range of Higher Education matters, with the main focus on commercial contracts and agreements, alongside data protection and information governance. Advising on and drafting commercial agreements, research and collaboration contracts, and partnership arrangements. Leading on DPIAs, UK GDPR compliance, data sharing agreements, and handling complex data protection matters. Supporting on a range of general Higher Education issues, including some immigration and employment-related advice as required.
 
Working within a small legal team, the postholder will provide pragmatic, solution-focused and time-sensitive advice to senior stakeholders, ensuring regulatory compliance and effective risk management across the institution.
 
The Role:
Position: Locum Solicitor (Higher Education & Data Protection)
Duration: Initial 6 months with likely extensions
Rate: Up to £55 per hour umbrella
Working Pattern: Full Time, predominantly remote with occasional attendance.
Key Responsibilities:

• Providing practical legal advice on Commercial Contracts, Intellectual Property, Data Protection, and Employment matters.
• Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts, including academic collaboration, research, and data sharing agreements.
• Advising on data protection compliance, including data breaches and subject access requests.
• Supporting employment-related matters, including disciplinary and grievance issues, working collaboratively with HR.
• Supporting governance and regulatory compliance across the University.

Ideal Candidate:

• Qualified Solicitor with experience in Commercial Contracts, Intellectual Property, Data Protection, and Employment Law.
• Experience in a Higher Education setting is essential for this role.
• You must be a confident advisor with strong drafting, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Have the ability to manage a varied caseload and work collaboratively with other members of the team.

For further information, or to apply for this role, please contact Louise Francis or Phoebe Maries on 07441 916438 or email localgovlegal@venngroup.com.
Venn Group is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all candidates.
Locum Solicitor (Higher Education & Data Protection) – ASAP Start – Up to £55 per hour umbrella – Initial 6 months – South East