The Contracts Advisor will prepare, negotiate and conclude commercial contracts, including confidentiality, research, collaboration & consultancy agreements. The role will support the University’s Excelling in Research strategy with contractual advice for both research and knowledge exchange. Summary of Key Duties and Responsibilities: To draft, negotiate and advise on research and related contracts, subcontracts, confidentiality agreements, studentships, collaboration agreements, etc. To provide commercially focussed advice on industrial sponsorship deals and contracts. To draft and review software licences, patent and knowhow licences and associated documentation. To provide general intellectual property advice to academic and professional services colleagues. To provide general contractual advice to support other directorates within the university, eg Enterprise, Finance, Estates & Facilities, Governance & Legal Services, etc To assist the Head of Legal on a variety of contractual matters as required. To undertake any other duties required from time to time by the Head of Legal or the Director of Research Engagement. Education, Qualifications & Experience: These are the criteria on which the short-listing and recruitment selection will be made: Essential Educated to first degree level in law (LLB) or business with relevant legal content or equivalent practical experience in the workplace Experience of working within a similar environment as outlined above Competent in the use of relevant IT packages Proven relevant experience in commercial contracts which will have been acquired over a number of years, with a basic understanding of the relevant theory Good knowledge and understanding of intellectual property rights Excellent interpersonal, influencing and presentation skills, able to understand and communicate complex issues effectively Demonstrable excellent customer service Demonstrable ability to work quickly, flexibly and accurately in a dynamic, changing and pressured environment Experience of working closely with stakeholders across all levels of the organisation High level organisational skills with the ability to prioritise major developments and to function effectively in a pressured environment Demonstrable professional and proactive approach Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team Desirable Professional Qualification or membership of Professional body (Law Society) Experience of working in Higher Education Understanding of the different aspects of commercialisation in a university context This job description is intended as a flexible framework which outlines the key general areas of activity in your position. Other activities may be required which are not outlined above but which are appropriate to the position and grade. Your personal objectives (Forward Job Plan) will also set out specific tasks and objectives for you to achieve, including objectives to help your career development.
