Options Consultancy Services Limited (Options) was established in 1992 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Marie Stopes International. Options is a leading provider of technical and management expertise in the health and social sectors in developing countries, mostly in Africa and Asia. We work in partnership with national and state governments, international development agencies, the private sector and civil society to strengthen programmes and policies to support the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals in health and poverty reduction.

We are contracted as a service provider by international donors, in particular the UK Government’s Department for International Development (DFID), to manage programmes and provide expertise to support the strengthening of health service delivery.  Our specialist technical expertise is in sexual and reproductive health, maternal new-born and child health, HIV and AIDS, citizen voice and accountability, gender, social inclusion and equity. Most “Client Contracts” range in financial value between £100,000 and £30 million for programmes with a duration of up to five years.

We are seeking a Head of Legal Affairs to bring legal expertise to the company. The post holder will be responsible for the provision of legal advice and professional guidance relating to: client contracts, consortium contracts, consultant contracts, commercial contracts and due diligence and compliance.

Responsibilities 

This is a specialist role requiring excellent legal skills, a strong track record in legal affairs, and effective communication skills at all levels and across cultures.

The main responsibilities include the provision of legal advice and management of legal requirements relating to:

1. Contracts with clients (especially UK government’s Department for International Development), agreements between the company and its Partner Organisations and individuals for consultancy services, as well as contracts for the supplies of services.
2. Due Diligence and Compliance, including managing the company’s due diligence policies and procedures across its supply partners and international teams
3. Registrations of appropriate entities for operation in different country contexts, and all matters pertaining to the legal aspects of the company’s operations.

• Law Degree or equivalent level legal qualification (English Law) such as CILEx

• Significant experience in legal and business affairs in similar organisations, or large international non-government organisations (INGOs) or in a relevant government department
• Experience of providing statutory and compliance advice including advising on data management and protection issues
• Extensive knowledge of English contract law
• Excellent writing skills and the ability to translate complex material into clear and concise materials
• Excellent negotiation and presentational skills and the ability to communicate effectively at all levels and across cultures
• Proficient computer literacy
• Strong project management skills and the ability to work to deadlines, under pressure and to take projects forward without supervision
• Proven skills in contracting with external agencies.

For more details please see the person specification.

• Options is an equal opportunities employer
• Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and post holders to share this commitment.

• Overseas candidates require a valid UK work permit