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 Market Risk, Data and Insights, an exceptional strategic leader who will play a pivotal role in shaping the organisation's future approach to risk identification, intelligence and evidence-based regulation. This is a critical Executive Team position, responsible for leading the SRA's market risk, data, analytics, insights and research capabilities, ensuring they drive effective regulatory decision-making and support the organisation's mission to protect the public interest. 

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive and serving as a member of the Executive Team, the Executive Director Market Risk, Data and Insights will provide strategic leadership across the organisation's market risk, data management, analytics, insight and research functions. The role will ensure that the SRA is intelligence-led, evidence-based and proactive in identifying and responding to emerging risks across legal services markets. The postholder will oversee the development of advanced analytical and research capabilities, provide high-quality insight to inform organisational priorities and performance, and advise the Board and Executive Team on market developments, emerging risks and strategic choices. They will also act as an influential external ambassador for risk-based regulation and the effective use of data and analytics, building strong relationships with stakeholders across the regulatory landscape. 

The successful candidate will bring substantial senior leadership experience gained within a regulator, regulated sector or similarly complex environment. They will have a strong track record of leading market risk, data, insight, research or intelligence functions that have informed organisational strategy, performance and decision-making. Combining strategic judgement with analytical rigour, this person will be able to translate complex evidence and risk analysis into clear executive priorities and actions. They will possess excellent communication and influencing skills, as well as the credibility to shape debate in complex stakeholder environments. Above all, they will demonstrate a strong commitment to inclusive leadership, organisational improvement and delivering outcomes in the public interest. 

This is a rare opportunity to shape how one of the UK's most important regulators understands and responds to market risk, harnesses the power of data and intelligence, and strengthens confidence and trust in legal services through more proactive, evidence-led regulation.

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 QBYRD. Alternatively email belinda.beck@saxbam.com. Applications should be received by noon on Tuesday 25 August 2026.