Governance and Legal Services Director

About the role

World Animal Protection is seeking a Director of Governance & Legal Services to lead the Governance and Legal function and provide senior oversight of policies and procedures relating to governance, legal, regulatory and risk matters.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the Governance and Legal Services function, building strong governance, compliance and risk frameworks.
• Act as (or oversee) Company Secretary and support the Board and its Committees.
• Advise on charity law, corporate governance, employment law, contracts, data protection, regulatory compliance and organisational change.
• Manage external legal counsel when needed.
• Work with World Animal Protection affiliates to keep governance arrangements with the UK charity in good shape.

Required profile

• Senior leadership experience translating complex legal issues into clear, practical advice.
• Sound judgement, integrity, and a genuine commitment to ethical governance.
• The credibility to build trust and confidence across the organisation.

What we offer

• Competitive salary of £73,251‑£79,530 per year.
• Pension scheme with employer matching up to 6%.
• 24 days holiday per year, plus additional days for service and end‑of‑year.
• Flexible public holidays and start‑time options.
• Life Assurance benefit of 3× annual salary.
• Volunteer leave (2 days per year) and a range of inclusivity benefits covering various personal circumstances.
• Long‑service milestones with bonus days off.
• Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing resources.