The legal and compliance sector is complex and multi-faceted, offering professionals numerous career paths within various industries. Considering the globalisation of markets and more stringent economic controls, the options available in these fields are no longer confined to borders and present themselves as an enticing career path for UK professionals looking for international prospects.
What Are Legal and Compliance Careers?
Legal and compliance careers are anchored upon making sure that businesses, organisations, and individuals operate within the framework of laws policies, and accepted ethical practices. Legal practitioners provide legal counsel, represent clients in different courts, and draft various legal documents, while compliance professionals have the responsibility of ensuring a company’s compliance with a plethora of rules and laws that govern businesses, especially in finance, healthcare, and corporate governance.
What Types of Roles Are Available in Legal and Compliance?
The legal and compliance industry poses a variety of opportunities, including the following:
Legal Positions:
- Solicitor
- Barrister
- Legal Consultant
- In-House Counsel
- Paralegal
Compliance Roles:
- Compliance Officer
- Risk Manager
- Regulatory Affairs Specialist
- Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Specialist
- Data Protection Officer (DPO)
What Are Some Niche Areas in Legal and Compliance
Some industries have specialised legal and compliance positions, including data protection, employment and more:
Financial Services Compliance
Compliance roles exist within the banking, investment and insurance industries.
Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Law
There are also positions within these industries, as counsel on medical law issues, patents and regulations on medications can be offered.
Technology and Corporate Social Responsibility
This sector deals with issues related to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), cybersecurity legislation, and intellectual property matters.
Environmental and Corporate Social Responsibility
This ensures compliance by businesses to the set environmental and ethical business policies and regulations.
Employment and Immigration Law
This area helps businesses and people deal with work permit issues, labour law compliance, and other legal conflicts.
What Qualifications Are Needed For Law and Compliance?
Generally, for legal professions in the UK, a person holds the following documents:
- A law diploma (LLB) or obtained through GDL for those who don’t have formal legal education.
- Passed Solicitor Qualifying Exam (SQE) or attended Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) to practice in the field as a barrister.
- Work experience obtained through training contracts or pupillage.
For compliance positions in other industries, success depends on the industry but usually:
- Holds a law, finance, business, or risk management degree.
- CISI, ICA, or ACAMS certifications for financial compliance positions.
- Understanding of GDPR, FCA, or particular industry compliance obligations.
How to Find Global Job Opportunities?
There is an evergrowing need for legal and compliance specialists around the globe and several strategies can be implemented to search for them:
Use a Recruitment Agency
Legal and compliance recruitment agencies can link candidates with employment opportunities around the world. Agencies are familiar with current market conditions including pay and visa availability.
Use Professional Connections
Sites such as LinkedIn, Law Society functions, and compliance associations are great for networking.
Target Global Companies
A number of UK-based law companies have branches abroad, and multinational businesses frequently hire compliance professionals with global experience.
Attend Legal and Compliance Conferences
Attending global events and seminars assists in networking with leaders in the profession.
Review Country-Specific Regulations
You should always perform diligent research on existing qualifications and requirements before applying for positions abroad.
Benefits of Using Recruitment Agencies
Using a recruitment placement offers several benefits in obtaining a legal or compliance position, especially in a foreign country:
Receive Expert Career Advice
Many recruiters are highly versed in the current job market which means they will be able to provide necessary information to help you land your dream job.
Access to Exclusive Job Openings
If you choose a reputable recruitment agency, they will likely work directly with leading employers, giving you access to unadvertised roles.
International Employment Advice
For those wanting to work outside the country, agencies can assist with visa stipulations and the laws regarding employment in that country.