At a Glance
- Tasks: Support legal teams by managing commercial contracts and providing sound legal advice.
- Company: Join American Express, a leader in innovation and customer service.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salaries, flexible working, and comprehensive health benefits.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a dynamic environment while developing your legal skills.
- Qualifications: Junior UK-qualified solicitor with experience in commercial contracts.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
The General Counsel’s Organization (GCO) is American Express’ legal and government affairs departments, along with the Corporate Secretary's Office (which is responsible for interactions with our Board of Directors). They are responsible for protecting and strengthening American Express through world-class expertise and strategic advice that helps our business partners manage risk, identify opportunities, and deliver on the Company's promise of exceptional products and services. The LST’s mission is to provide efficient, consistent, innovative, and high-quality legal support across business units, staff groups and jurisdictions. We are looking for a motivated, proactive, junior lawyer, experienced in commercial contracts, who will be part of this lively team.
Responsibilities
- Identifying and effectively handling legal risk
- Taking instructions from and supporting your team leader, other lawyers, or legal teams in GCO, primarily across the EMEA region, and beyond as required
- Providing sound, commercial, legal advice and support across all business units, including drafting, reviewing, analysing and negotiating a wide range of agreements and legal documents such as procurement, marketing, technology and sponsorship agreements
- Supporting internal governance and approval processes, including coordinating internal partners as appropriate
- Instructing and collaborating closely with outside counsel to obtain, challenge and finalise legal advice/opinions on projects and agreements
- Carrying out legal research on behalf of GCO colleagues
- Handling company secretarial matters and other LST workstreams, as required
Working with Other LST Team Members, Including
- Improving methods for legal knowledge management and supporting LST training and upskilling programme
- Ensuring LST’s adherence to any company-wide and GCO-specific processes and procedures
Qualifications
- Junior UK-qualified solicitor (or hold an equivalent qualification from a common law jurisdiction, provided you have some experience advising on English law matters)
- Proven experience of drafting, advising and negotiating on commercial contracts in a practical and commercial manner with strong research and analytical skills
- Ability to effectively multi-task, prioritise and work as part of a team or autonomously under time pressure to meet deadlines and manage clients’ expectations
- Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, reliably, and persuasively with clients, senior business people, legal management and external regulators, both orally and in writing
- Commitment to integrity and American Express value
Preferred Experience
- Fluency in French/German/Italian/Spanish would be beneficial
- In-house experience in financial services would be beneficial
- Cross-jurisdictional experience is preferred, but not required (e.g. EMEA, APAC, LAC)
Employment eligibility to work with American Express in the UK is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions.
About Us
At American Express, our culture is built on a 175-year history of innovation, shared values and Leadership Behaviors, and an unwavering commitment to back our customers, communities, and colleagues. From delivering differentiated products to providing world‑class customer service, we operate with a strong risk mindset, ensuring we continue to uphold our brand promise of trust, security, and service. As part of Team Amex, you’ll experience our powerful backing with comprehensive support for your holistic well‑being and many opportunities to learn new skills, develop as a leader, and grow your career. Here, your voice and ideas matter, your work makes an impact, and together, you will help us define the future of American Express.
About The Team
We back you with benefits that support your holistic well‑being so you can be and deliver your best. This means caring for you and your loved ones' physical, financial, and mental health, as well as providing the flexibility you need to thrive personally and professionally:
- Competitive base salaries
- Bonus incentives
- Support for financial‑well‑being and retirement
- Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability benefits (depending on location)
- Flexible working model with hybrid, onsite or virtual arrangements depending on role and business need
- Generous paid parental leave policies (depending on your location)
- Free access to global on‑site wellness centres staffed with nurses and doctors (depending on location)
- Free and confidential counselling support through our Healthy Minds programme
- Career development and training opportunities
Offer of employment with American Express is conditioned upon the successful completion of a background verification check, subject to applicable laws and regulations.
Associate Counsel - Commercial Law in London employer: American Express
Contact Detail:
American Express Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Counsel - Commercial Law in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the legal field, especially those who have experience with commercial law. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential colleagues and learn about opportunities that might not be advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of commercial contracts and American Express's values. We want to see how you can align your skills with their mission, so think about examples from your past experiences that showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It shows professionalism and keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Associate Counsel position. We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and connect directly with the hiring team at American Express!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Counsel - Commercial Law in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Associate Counsel role. Highlight your experience with commercial contracts and any relevant legal skills that align with what we’re looking for at American Express.
Showcase Your Legal Expertise: When writing your application, don’t hold back on showcasing your legal knowledge. Include specific examples of how you've handled legal risks or negotiated contracts in the past, as this will resonate well with our team.
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! Ensure your application is well-structured and easy to read. Use straightforward language to communicate your qualifications and experiences, making it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website. This helps us keep track of all applications and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at American Express
✨Know Your Commercial Contracts
Brush up on your knowledge of commercial contracts, as this role heavily involves drafting and negotiating them. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experience where you successfully navigated complex agreements.
✨Research American Express
Familiarise yourself with American Express’ values, culture, and recent developments in the financial services sector. This will not only help you align your answers with their mission but also show your genuine interest in the company.
✨Practice Clear Communication
Since the role requires clear and persuasive communication, practice articulating your thoughts concisely. Consider doing mock interviews with a friend or mentor to refine your ability to convey legal advice effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle legal risks. Think of situations where you had to make tough decisions under pressure and be ready to explain your thought process.