SettleParadigm has been created through the merger of Settle Group and Paradigm Housing Group, bringing together two successful organisations with a shared commitment to providing excellent homes and services. With more than 30,000 homes across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and beyond, we are now the largest housing association operating in the region, with the scale, resources and ambition to make an even greater impact for residents and communities.

As we define our future and deliver a bold new vision, we are seeking an outstanding legal leader to join us as Director of Legal Services. Reporting to the Group General Counsel, this is a career-defining opportunity to lead legal services at a pivotal moment in our evolution. You will be a trusted adviser to our Executive Team and Board, helping to navigate a complex and highly regulated environment while enabling innovation, transformation and growth. More than simply managing legal risk, you will help shape strategic decisions, influence organisational direction and ensure legal insight is at the heart of our success.

We are looking for a qualified solicitor with senior-level experience gained in private practice, an in-house legal team, or both. You will combine outstanding technical expertise with commercial awareness, sound judgement and the ability to influence at the highest levels. Whether your background is in social housing or another regulated sector, you will bring a strong track record of advising senior leaders, leading high-performing teams and turning complex legal challenges into practical business solutions.

Most importantly, you will be an engaging and collaborative leader who thrives on building trusted relationships. You will be able to see the bigger picture, balance risk with opportunity and provide the confidence and clarity needed to support ambitious decision-making. In return, we offer a rare opportunity to help shape a new organisation from the ground up. Joining SettleParadigm means becoming part of an organisation with real momentum, clear ambition and a determination to set new standards for customer service, governance and social impact. This is your chance to leave a lasting legacy while helping us build a better future for thousands of residents. For further information and to download the candidate and apply, please click the 'Continue' button below.

For a confidential discussion please contact

• Simon Wing on simon.wing@gatenbysanderson.com
• Alex Hayes at alex.hayes@gatenbysanderson.com or 07586715843

To view the job description and person specification, please scroll to the bottom of the page, tick to agree to the privacy policy, then click 'Continue to full details'.

Recruitment Timetable

Closing Date
Friday 7th August 2026 at 9am

Longlist meeting
w/c 10th August 2026

Preliminary Interviews
w/c 17th & 24th August 2026

Shortlist Meeting
w/c 31st August 2026

Final Interviews
w/c 7th September 2026

How to Apply

• Please submit your CV along with a Supporting Statement addressing the person specification criteria, evidencing how you meet the criteria.
• Detail any employment or education gaps.
• Be ready to provide the names, positions, organisations and contact details for two referees; one should be your current or most recent employer. Referees will be contacted for those proceeding to final stages. We will always gain your permission before we contact referees.
• Let us know any difficulty you may have with the indicative timetable.
• Check that your contact details are correct before you submit.

Once you have submitted your application, you will receive an automated email confirmation. If you do not receive, please email contactus@gatenbysanderson.com