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- Tasks: Lead legal support for global equity incentive plans and advise on equity arrangements.
- Company: Join Howden, a global insurance group with a unique employee ownership model and vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, hybrid options, and a supportive environment that values diversity.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving change in a rapidly growing company with a strong entrepreneurial spirit.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor or US attorney with 5+ years in equity compensation and excellent communication skills.
- Other info: We offer reasonable adjustments to ensure your needs are met while you thrive in your role.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Who are we? Howden is a collective – a group of talented and passionate people all around the world. Together, we have pushed the boundaries of insurance. We are united by a shared passion and no-limits mindset, and our strength lies in our ability to collaborate as a powerful international team comprised of 18,000 employees spanning over 100 countries. People join Howden for many different reasons, but they stay for the same one: our culture. It’s what sets us apart, and the reason our employees have been turning down headhunters for years. Whatever your priorities – work / life balance, career progression, sustainability, volunteering – you’ll find like-minded people driving change at Howden.
What is the role? Howden is a leading global insurance group with a unique employee ownership model and a strong entrepreneurial culture. As we continue our rapid growth and prepare for a potential IPO, we are seeking an equity incentives lawyer to join our in-house legal team. This is a role for a lawyer with experience in US and UK equity compensation, who can help shape our global equity incentives strategy in line with our growth ambitions.
What will you be doing?
- Lead legal support for the design, implementation, and governance of global equity incentive plans, with a particular focus on US and UK equity incentives.
- Draft and negotiate plan documentation.
- Advising on, and negotiating the terms of, the equity arrangements of new hires and leavers.
- Clearly communicate with senior management and provide guidance on equity incentives.
- Partner with HR, finance, and external advisors to ensure compliant rollouts of equity plans across multiple jurisdictions.
- Advise on Howden’s internal share offerings.
- Advise on equity-related matters in corporate transactions.
- Monitor and interpret legal, tax, and regulatory developments affecting employee incentives globally, especially in the UK, US and EU.
- Support employee communications and education around equity participation.
- Contribute to broader group legal initiatives, including governance, compliance, and corporate structuring.
What are we looking for?
Requirements:
- Qualified solicitor (England & Wales or equivalent) or US-qualified attorney.
- 5+ years of post-qualification experience, with a strong focus on US equity compensation structures and UK share schemes.
- Experience advising on equity matters in the context of M&A and/or IPO preparation.
- Excellent drafting and communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts to non-lawyers.
- Commercial mindset with a collaborative, solutions-oriented approach.
Desirable:
- Previous in-house experience in a high-growth or pre-IPO environment.
- Familiarity with SEC compliance and US securities law as it relates to equity compensation.
- Experience working in or advising the insurance or financial services sector.
What do we offer in return? A career that you define. At Howden, we value diversity – there is no one Howden type. Instead, we’re looking for individuals who share the same values as us: Our successes have all come from someone brave enough to try something new. We support each other in the small everyday moments and the bigger challenges. We are determined to make a positive difference at work and beyond.
Reasonable adjustments: We’re committed to providing reasonable accommodations at Howden to ensure that our positions align well with your needs. Besides the usual adjustments such as software, IT, and office setups, we can also accommodate other changes such as flexible hours or hybrid working. If you’re excited by this role but have some doubts about whether it’s the right fit for you, send us your application – if your profile fits the role’s criteria, we will be in touch to assist in helping to get you set up with any reasonable adjustments you may require.
Senior Legal Counsel (equity incentives) employer: Howden Group Holdings
Contact Detail:
Howden Group Holdings Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal Counsel (equity incentives)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the equity compensation field, especially those who have experience in both US and UK markets. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about current trends that could be beneficial for your role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Howden's unique employee ownership model and entrepreneurial culture. Understanding their values and how they operate will help you align your discussions and demonstrate your fit within their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences with M&A and IPO preparations, as these are crucial for the role. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've navigated complex equity arrangements in past positions.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly. Practice explaining intricate equity compensation structures in simple terms, as this skill is essential for advising non-lawyers and senior management effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Legal Counsel (equity incentives)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Legal Counsel position. Familiarise yourself with equity compensation structures in both the US and UK, as well as Howden's unique employee ownership model.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your relevant experience in equity compensation, particularly any work related to M&A or IPO preparation. Make sure to emphasise your qualifications as a solicitor or attorney and your post-qualification experience.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to showcase your passion for the role and Howden's culture. Explain how your skills align with their needs, particularly your ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly and your collaborative approach.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter. Ensure there are no grammatical errors and that your documents are clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a legal role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Howden Group Holdings
✨Understand the Company Culture
Before your interview, take some time to research Howden's unique culture and values. Familiarise yourself with their collective mindset and how they prioritise collaboration and employee ownership. This will help you align your answers with what they value in their team members.
✨Showcase Your Legal Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience with US and UK equity compensation structures in detail. Highlight specific cases where you've successfully advised on equity matters, especially in M&A or IPO contexts. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the role.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since the role requires explaining complex legal concepts to non-lawyers, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you've effectively communicated legal information to diverse audiences.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with insightful questions about Howden's future plans, particularly regarding their equity incentives strategy. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company aligns with your career goals.
