Legal Counsel (Estates)

Imperial College London - Division of the University Secretary

Placed On: 25th March 2026
Closes: 12th April 2026
Job Ref: CEN00383

About the role

This is an exciting opportunity for an early‑career level property lawyer with experience in advising on a broad range of property matters to play a key role in the Legal & Regulatory Affairs team supporting Imperial College London’s extensive and diverse estate.

The Legal & Regulatory Affairs team is well-respected within Professional Services. The purpose of the team is to support the achievement of the University’s objectives by delivering at pace consistently excellent legal advice across the broad range of the University’s activities. As Imperial operates a complex property portfolio, spanning incubator laboratory space, office space, innovation hubs, student accommodation, commercial and industrial estates – all forming part of the wider Imperial ecosystem – a requirement has arisen for this new post.

What you would be doing

You will provide high‑quality, timely, commercially‑focused legal support on a broad range of real estate matters, with a primary focus on commercial leasing activity across Imperial’s estate. You will assist the Senior Legal Counsel (Estates & Sustainability) in advising on transactions, leases, licences, property‑related agreements and associated estates matters, helping to ensure Imperial’s assets are managed, operated and commercialised effectively.

You will work collaboratively with colleagues across Property, Capital Projects, Finance, Tax, Campus Services, and external stakeholders, delivering pragmatic, robust, solutions‑focused advice that is based upon a sound assessment of legal and other risks and represents excellent value for money, thereby supporting the operational and strategic objectives of the University.

What we are looking for

• A minimum of degree-level education or equivalent experience;
• Qualified as a solicitor or barrister;
• Current Practising Certificate to practise law in England and Wales;
• Demonstrable experience of delivering high-quality legal advice at pace on a range of commercial real estate work (e.g. granting new leases, licences for assignments, subletting, alterations, rent deposit deeds);
• Experience drafting and negotiating property documentation at pace and providing clear, pragmatic commercial advice;
• A sound understanding of core real estate law principles, with the confidence to apply legal judgement pragmatically across varied property assets;
• Clear ability to analyse and evaluate often complex data to identify risks and make well considered, pragmatic decisions that demonstrate reliable legal judgement;
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with demonstrable ability to explain complex legal matters in a clear, concise way, both orally and in writing;
• Strong drafting and negotiation skills.

A full list of essential and desirable criteria can be found in the Job Description and Person Specification.

What we can offer you

The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to use science for humanity.

• Benefit from a sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days’ annual leave and generous pension schemes).
• Access to a range of workplace benefits including a flexible working policy from day one, generous family leave packages, on-site leisure facilities and cycle-to-work scheme.
• Interest-free season ticket loan schemes for travel.
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.