Location: Edinburgh
Contract Type: Full-Time / Part-Time / Fixed-Term
Reports to: Senior Trustee
About Us:
We are a dedicated children's education charity, committed to providing safe, inspiring spaces where young people can thrive. As we grow and manage multiple office and learning centre properties, we are seeking a capable and proactive Legal & Compliance Officer to support our operations. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organisation while playing a key role in ensuring our legal, property, and health & safety compliance.
Role Overview:
The Legal & Compliance Officer will support the charity in a broad range of legal matters, particularly those relating to commercial property, corporate governance, contracts, and health and safety. While not required to be a solicitor, the successful candidate will have significant experience in corporate and property law, and a sound understanding of compliance in the context of health and safety for multi-site operations.
Key Responsibilities:
Legal & Property
- Provide guidance on corporate legal matters, including contracts, policies, and governance
- Advise on commercial leases, landlord-tenant issues, property acquisition/licensing, and property compliance
- Review and negotiate contracts with suppliers, service providers, and third parties
- Ensure all property-related documentation is accurate, up-to-date, and legally compliant
Health & Safety Compliance
- Oversee and support the scheduling and completion of health & safety inspections across all charity-owned or occupied sites
- Ensure all sites are compliant with relevant health & safety laws and best practices
- Liaise with external advisors or inspectors where required
- Support the implementation of risk assessments and internal H&S policies
General Compliance & Risk
- Keep abreast of legal and regulatory changes relevant to the charity sector
- Support internal training and awareness for legal and compliance matters
- Work with leadership on risk identification and mitigation strategies
Person Specification:
Essential:
- Strong working knowledge of UK corporate and commercial property law
- Proven experience working in a legal, compliance, or governance-related role (in-house or private practice)
- Practical knowledge of health & safety obligations in an office or educational environment
- Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Alignment with the values and mission of a children-focused charity
Desirable:
- Previous experience working in or with the charity or education sectors
- NEBOSH or IOSH qualification (or similar)
- Experience managing or coordinating property inspections or facilities compliance
What We Offer:
- The chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and young people
- A collaborative and supportive team environment
- Flexible or hybrid working arrangements
- Opportunities for professional development and training