Head of Legal

We are seeking a highly experienced and adaptable Head of Legal to join our impactful organisationBelow covers everything you need to know about what this opportunity entails, as well as what is expected from applicants. At Global Witness, we’re on a mission to shift the balance of power from the polluters profiting most from the climate emergency to the people most adversely affected. We are an independent, global organisation of investigators and campaigners using cutting edge investigative methods. We shine a light on the financial and political systems that enable that enable corporate abuses of power that harm people and planet. We are all determined and confident that together we can secure a better tomorrow for everyone. If you are inspired to join us as we investigate and expose abuses of power, tell the stories the world needs to hear and campaign for systemic change, we would love to hear from you. About the role We are seeking a highly experienced and adaptable Head of Legal to join our impactful organisation. The Head of Legal will provide comprehensive, strategic legal advice across a wide range of organisational activities, with a primary focus on investigations and litigation advice. As an in-house legal expert, you will manage litigation, deliver pre-publication advice, and proactively assess and mitigate legal risks, including those related to intellectual property and data protection. You will work closely with the senior leadership team to ensure that we maintain the highest standards of corporate compliance, both nationally and internationally, while protecting and enhancing our reputation and relationships. In addition, as part of our learning organisation, you will play a pivotal role in knowledge sharing and legal training, fostering collaboration across the organisation to ensure staff are equipped with the legal knowledge they need to thrive. About you This senior role requires an individual with deep expertise in editorial media law, pre-and post-publication and litigation across jurisdictions. The ideal candidate will have experience in defamation, privacy, intellectual property especially in the context of high-profile, international campaigning and investigations. You will be a strategic thinker who can manage complex legal issues while supporting the overall mission and goals of the organisation. You will bring senior experience which includes advising and negotiating on a range of contracts matters, as well as the flexibility to support an evolving and fast paced international and mission-driven organisation. Working for Global Witness Global Witness has a talented team of people worldwide with offices in London, Washington D.C. and Brussels. We aim to be a diverse and inclusive place to work. We value new perspectives, original ideas and different ways of working. We believe that diverse views and experiences improve the way we do our work. We do our best to make our jobs accessible to all regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, or identity. We offer an excellent benefits package including a competitive salary and 25 days annual leave (excl. Bank Holidays). We also offer healthcare insurance, wellbeing days and policies to support you during key life events. We are currently in the first year of a shorter working week pilot where everyone works 30 hours Monday to Thursday, with Friday off with no impact on full time salary. We operate a hybrid working model which requires at least 2 days in the office. How to apply Applications should be made online and include: a CV Covering letter (no more than two pages) explaining your motivation for applying for the role, along with how you meet the knowledge and experience criteria in the person specification The closing date for applications is 9am GMT Monday 8 December 2025. Interview process Preliminary interviews with be held virtually week commencing 15 December 2025. If you have any questions relating to the role or the process or would like any adjustments made to accommodate your needs, please contact us. Equality and diversity We would appreciate your participation in completing our Equality and Diversity Monitoring Form. Global Witness wants to meet the aims and commitments set out in its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion strategy. xsabvtc This includes not discriminating under the Equality Act 2010 and building an accurate picture of the make-up of the workforce and candidates in encouraging equality and diversity.