The SRA will create a new senior management post dedicated to the development of innovation and technology in the wider legal sector.

The executive director of strategy and innovation will become the fifth individual working at that level for the SRA, as well as chief executive Paul Philip and general counsel Juliet Oliver.

The regulator states that candidates must have a ‘deep understanding of leading-edge technology and innovation, and how it is applied in a business environment’. Applications close tomorrow.

The new recruit will develop, deliver and monitor current and future corporate strategies, ensuring the SRA fully understands the development and application of technology for providers and consumers.

They must also manage and grow the SRA Innovate and Innovation Space projects and ‘scan the long-term horizon’ for events which may impact on the legal service market.

The role involves direct management or control of around 40 staff and is based in London or the Midlands, with travel between when required.

Details of remuneration for the new post have not been disclosed, barring the job advertisement stating salary would be ‘competitive’ and dependant on background and qualifications.

As of last October, Philip was paid £244,000 a year, with five other employees receiving between £135,000 and £165,000.

The SRA is seeking to plug knowledge gaps which were created by the departures of two executive directors in the last year. Crispin Passmore left at the end of 2018, with Richard Collins, who led on policy, education and anti-money laundering work, departing soon after.