At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal strategy for Airbnb's UK operations, advising on regulations and public policy.
- Company: Join a global leader in travel and hospitality with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a focus on collaboration and innovation in a fast-paced environment.
- Why this job: Be the trusted legal adviser shaping the future of travel in the UK.
- Qualifications: 10+ years PQE, strong understanding of UK laws, and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
Requirements
- Minimum 10 years PQE (or equivalent experience), qualified in the UK
- Significant in-house experience advising senior business and policy stakeholders on UK laws and regulation
- Collaborating with business and policy teams to develop strategic positions and policy and comms strategies for new and existing regulation
- Devising and advocating for specific regulatory positions
- Excellent understanding of the UK legislative process
- Experience working closely with colleagues based in multiple jurisdictions and timeframes
- Co-ordinating, consolidating, and interrogating cross-jurisdictional advice and advice from outside counsel
- Experience advising on UK consumer protection regulation, eCommerce Directive, and Online Safety Act
- Fluent in English
- Highly desired: Expertise in the platform liability regime in the UK and EU
- Experience advising international digital businesses on the application of UK law and regulation
- Understanding of UK short-term rental and/or planning regulation
- Experience managing a team
- Fluency in other European languages
- Empathetic and ethical approach, excellent judgment, well-honed organisational and analytical skills
- Strong oral and written communications skills
- Intellectually curious, adaptable, and comfortable with ambiguity and risk
- Adapts easily to shifting priorities and business needs
- Confident working on sensitive and complex issues with senior business leaders
- Strong ability to inspire trust and confidence, forge relationships quickly, and influence decision making
- Readily able to translate a deep substantive knowledge into clear and practical advice
- Able to distill and interrogate complex advice from outside counsel
- Proactively identifies risks and friction in working practices and finding practical solutions
- Operates with a high degree of autonomy and minimal supervision
- Owns the legal agenda for the UK business
- Contributes to and leads diversity, inclusion and belonging initiatives within the EMEA legal team
What the job involves
- Airbnb’s Legal Department is a global team that will require working with diverse international colleagues around the world
- The successful candidate will be someone who is adaptable, collaborative and embodies Airbnb’s Core Values
- Candidates will be required to approach complex legal issues with a balance for local and global perspectives
- A genuine and demonstrated interest in Airbnb and a commitment to ethics, integrity and fostering a workplace that emphasizes diversity and belonging is a must
- We are looking for an experienced, business-focused lawyer to serve as Lead Counsel for the UK
- Based in our London office and reporting to the Associate General Counsel Product EMEA
- You will be the trusted legal adviser to the UK business and the legal point of contact for the Northern Europe and Middle East (NEMEA) Leadership Team
- Responsible for all legal matters related to the UK business
- Working closely with the public policy and communications teams, tax team, other legal team members, and outside counsel
- Identifying and briefing the business, policy, and communications teams on relevant legal and regulatory developments
- Advising on UK B2C and B2B product launches or updates
- Legal point of contact for the NEMEA Leadership Team
- The role will include work on commercial agreements, and may involve leading pan-EMEA legal projects
- Instruct and manage outside counsel where appropriate
- Proactively draft, review and refine internal processes, policies and workflows
- Identifying, consolidating and escalating material legal risk to the appropriate decision makers
Lead Counsel (United Kingdom) employer: Airbnb
Airbnb is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises diversity and belonging. Based in the vibrant city of London, employees benefit from a collaborative environment where they can engage with international colleagues and contribute to meaningful legal strategies that shape the future of digital business. With ample opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to ethical practices, Airbnb empowers its team members to thrive in a fast-paced, innovative setting while making a significant impact on the regulatory landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Counsel (United Kingdom)
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Airbnb, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Counsel (United Kingdom)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Airbnb, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Airbnb and the specific role of Lead Counsel (United Kingdom). Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Airbnb’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Airbnb
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Airbnb.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Airbnb.
