At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the legal function, providing strategic advice and managing legal risks across the Group.
- Company: Join Arag, a forward-thinking company focused on commercial growth and customer outcomes.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a chance to shape legal strategy.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for professional development and team engagement.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact by guiding legal practices in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with senior leadership experience and strong commercial awareness.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 130000 £ per year.
We are delighted to announce an exciting and rare new opportunity at Arag for a Group General Counsel. Reporting to the Chief Customer Officer, the Group General Counsel is responsible for leading the legal function across the Group. The role provides comprehensive and commercially focused legal support to the group including the Board, Executive Committee and senior stakeholders, overseeing litigation and corporate governance. The position operates in line with the legal requirements of the business while enabling commercial growth, managing legal risk, and supporting delivery of fair customer outcomes.
Accountabilities & Responsibilities
- Take responsibility for the Group’s legal function across all areas of the UK Group and operate collegiately with our parent company’s legal and compliance function.
- Enhancing the impact of the function and performance by identifying appropriate ways of working and introducing best practice as required.
- Act as principal legal adviser to the Board and Executive Management Committee on:
- Commercial operations
- Corporate governance and Board matters
- Strategic transactions, partnerships and business growth
- Legal and conduct risk
- Ensure delivery of high-quality, commercially focused legal advice across all areas of the business including:
- Insurance products and policy wordings
- Claims and litigation
- Distribution and partnerships
- Outsourcing and supplier arrangements
- Ensure effective management of litigation risk across the Group, including:
- Oversight of high-value and sensitive cases
- Setting litigation strategy and risk appetite
- Monitoring trends, indemnity spend and outcomes
- Ensure the Group maintains robust governance frameworks.
- Provide input into strategic and operational initiatives.
- Lead, develop and manage the Group Legal team to ensure high performance, capability and engagement.
Knowledge / Skills / Experience
- Qualified solicitor with significant post-qualification experience.
- Proven experience operating at senior leadership level (GC, Head of Legal or equivalent).
- Strong knowledge of:
- Insurance law and regulation
- FCA/PRA frameworks and Consumer Duty
- SRA regulation (desirable given ownership of a law firm)
- Experience of managing or overseeing litigation and legal services delivery.
- Strong commercial awareness with the ability to balance legal risk and business objectives.
- Excellent stakeholder management skills with ability to influence at Board and Executive level both for the UK business and our parent companies.
- Experience of corporate governance and working with Boards and Committees.
- Strong negotiation and contract drafting skills.
- Experience of regulatory engagement and managing complex legal risk.
- Proven leadership experience managing high-performing teams.
- Ability to operate in a fast-paced environment with competing priorities.
Group General Counsel in England employer: ARAG Legal Services UK
Arag is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking to make a significant impact in the legal field. With a strong commitment to employee growth, Arag offers comprehensive support and development opportunities, ensuring that team members thrive in their roles while contributing to the company's commercial success. Located in the UK, employees benefit from a dynamic environment that encourages strategic thinking and engagement with senior leadership, all while maintaining a focus on delivering fair customer outcomes.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group General Counsel in England
✨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 ARAG Legal Services UK, 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 Group General Counsel in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at ARAG Legal Services UK, 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 ARAG Legal Services UK and the specific role of Group General Counsel. 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 ARAG Legal Services UK’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at ARAG Legal Services UK
✨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 ARAG Legal Services UK.
✨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 ARAG Legal Services UK.
