The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) is the regulator of solicitors and law firms in England and Wales, overseeing more than 200,000 solicitors and 9,000 firms in a sector that contributes around £60bn annually to the UK economy. As the legal services market continues to evolve, shaped by technological change, shifting consumer expectations and increasing regulatory complexity, the SRA must continue to adapt to remain an effective, modern regulator acting in the public interest.

The SRA is now seeking to appoint an Executive Director Supervision, an outstanding senior leader who will play a pivotal role in delivering the organisation's strategic priorities and building a modern, risk-based approach to regulation. This is a newly established Executive Team position with responsibility for creating and leading the SRA's supervision function, ensuring effective oversight of regulated firms and driving interventions that protect consumers, uphold professional standards and maintain public confidence in legal services.

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive and serving as a member of the Executive Team, the Executive Director Supervision will provide strategic leadership for the development and implementation of the SRA's supervisory strategy. The role will oversee all aspects of the organisation's supervision of regulated firms, establishing a proactive and intelligence-led approach to identifying emerging risks and addressing issues before significant harm occurs. The postholder will work closely with Executive colleagues to support organisational transformation, contribute to corporate and regulatory objectives, and ensure strong operational and financial performance. They will also build relationships across the legal sector, government, regulatory bodies and other stakeholders, acting as a visible and credible ambassador for the SRA.

The successful candidate will bring significant senior leadership experience gained within a complex regulatory, supervisory, public sector or similarly challenging environment. They will have a strong track record of designing and leading effective supervisory or oversight frameworks, driving organisational change and embedding new approaches that improve performance and outcomes. A strategic thinker with excellent judgement, they will be able to assess risk through a public interest lens, navigate complex stakeholder environments and make proportionate, evidence-based decisions. They will possess exceptional communication and influencing skills, as well as a clear commitment to inclusive leadership, collaboration and continuous improvement.

This is a rare opportunity to establish a new regulatory function, shape the future approach to supervision across one of the UK's most important professional sectors, and play a central role in strengthening confidence and trust in legal services.

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the Solicitors Regulation Authority on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit roles.saxbam.com using reference QBYRC. Alternatively email belinda.beck@saxbam.com. Applications should be received by noon on Tuesday 25 August 2026.