Director of Services

Job description

The Bar Council is the voice of the barrister profession in England and Wales.  They lead, represent, and support the Bar in the public interest, championing the rule of law and access to justice. Almost 18,000 members, including self-employed and employed barristers, make up a united Bar that is strong, inclusive, independent, and influential.  As the General Council of the Bar, the Bar Council is the approved regulator for all practising barristers in England and Wales, delegating regulatory functions to the operationally independent Bar Standards Board (BSB).

As a member of the ‘Senior Management Team’ the Director of Services plays a key role in the overall strategic direction and culture of the organisation.  As leader of the Services and Training and Events Teams, they will oversee a significant annual portfolio and are expected to develop new, revenue-generating services, aligned with the Bar Council’s strategic goals. They will work collaboratively with colleagues and other departments to strengthen financial sustainability and improve engagement.

Reporting to the CEO, key responsibilities include:

Line/Team Management

• Lead and develop resources in the Services Department.
• Oversee performance of the Services and Training and Events Teams.
• Directly manage the Head of Services and Head of Training and Events.

Business Development

• Develop and review the Bar Council’s strategy for services.
• Creation and delivery of new services and revenue opportunities.
• Partner with the Communications and Marketing Team to promote services.

Operational and Financial Management

• Leading annual business planning – setting/monitoring of budgets.
• Managing partnerships and negotiations.
• Maintain a strong and proactive working relationship with the Finance Team.

Stakeholder Management

• Build and manage key stakeholder relationships.
• Coordinate new product development and promote existing services.
• Handle high-level complaints.

General Responsibilities

• Bar Representation Committee – to serve as Executive, setting agendas and leading discussions.
• Active member and contributor of the Senior Leadership Team, Information Management Board, and Emergency Management Team.
• Enhancement of leadership and employee engagement.

Suitable applicants will ideally possess apostgraduate qualification and/or equivalent experience gained in professional services, membership, or a similarly fast-paced environment. A demonstrable record or a clear commitment to the successful delivery of strategic business development. Outstanding communication skills to lead and develop teams effectively whilst also building positive relationships and influencing a range of senior stakeholders.

To apply for this position, please forward your CV clearly setting out your suitability for the role, to exclusively retained consultants, GRL Legal: recruitment@grllegal.com

(To request a copy of the comprehensive Candidate Brief, please email the same address).

The closing date for applications is 5 pm Monday 7^th October. Early applications are encouraged and initial meetings with GRL Consultants will take place immediately.

Equality and Diversity: 

Applications are encouraged from candidates from all backgrounds regardless of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, marital status, religion or belief, or disability.