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 a General Counsel, Risk & Compliance, a senior legal leader of exceptional calibre who will play a pivotal role at the heart of the organisation. This is a critical Executive Team position, responsible for providing independent legal advice and challenge at the highest level, while leading the organisation’s approach to governance, legal compliance and operational risk.

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive and as a member of the Executive Team, the General Counsel, Risk & Compliance will provide strategic leadership legal advice to support policy, governance and compliance. The role will ensure robust frameworks are in place that enable strong constitutional governance arrangements and safeguard organisational integrity. The postholder will contribute to corporate and regulatory priorities, support organisational transformation, and lead a multi-disciplinary team to deliver high performance within a culture of accountability and collaboration. They will also build strong relationships with senior stakeholders, operating with credibility and influence in a complex, high-profile environment.  

The successful candidate will be a qualified solicitor or barrister with a distinguished track record and deep expertise in public, administrative or regulatory law. They will bring significant experience of advising Boards and Executive teams on complex, high-profile matters, alongside strong judgement, strategic thinking and the ability to balance legal, organisational and reputational risk. With a proven track record of leading large, multi-disciplinary teams and delivering change in complex, regulated environments, they will be skilled in anticipating emerging risks and shaping effective organisational responses, and will demonstrate a clear commitment to inclusive leadership and organisational excellence. This role offers a rare opportunity to shape the SRA’s corporate governance and risk landscape, support effective regulation in the public interest, and play a central role in its continued evolution. 

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 QAFAFG. Alternatively email Belinda.beck@saxbam.com. Applications should be received by noon on Thursday 23 April 2026.