At a Glance
- Tasks: Draft and negotiate music agreements while supporting legal operations.
- Company: Join a leading music rights management company with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team atmosphere with a focus on creativity and collaboration.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of the music industry and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Qualified lawyer with music industry experience and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are looking for a motivated and commercially minded Music Lawyer to join our UK Legal & Business Affairs team. This role supports our recorded music and music publishing divisions, working closely with creative, commercial and operational teams across the business. You will play a key part in ensuring our agreements, rights management and day‑to‑day legal operations run smoothly, efficiently and in line with industry best practice.
What You'll Be Doing
- Draft, review and negotiate a wide range of agreements across recorded music and music publishing, including songwriting, administration, recording, producer, mixer, featured artist, video, artwork and photographer agreements.
- Advise on intellectual property rights relating to recordings, compositions and other creative assets.
- Review and negotiate controlled‑compositions provisions.
- Support the Legal & Business Affairs team with new areas of business as required.
- Provide day‑to‑day legal support to departments including Royalties & Copyright, Finance, A&R and Operations.
- Assist with contractual queries, disputes, invoice approvals, deal structuring, and the provision of templates and contractual information.
- Support senior lawyers within the UK Legal & Business Affairs team.
- Assist with data‑protection and compliance matters.
What We're Looking For
- Experience working as a music lawyer, either in‑house or in private practice, across a broad range of music‑industry matters.
- Strong drafting skills and clear, effective communication.
- High level of attention to detail.
- Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise to meet deadlines.
- Ability to understand local operational needs while recognising wider strategic considerations.
- Effective team player.
- Proactive and able to use initiative.
- Qualified lawyer in England and Wales with experience in music‑industry legal work.
- Demonstrable interest in the music industry.
- Interest in legal issues affecting the music and creative sectors.
It's a plus if you also have experience at a major music publisher, major label or large independent record label. We're ideally looking for someone who has 0‑4 years PQE.
All applicants to BMG will receive equal treatment regardless of age, disability, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.
Manager - Legal & Business Affairs employer: Bertelsmann
BMG is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and inclusive work culture, where creativity and collaboration thrive. Located in the vibrant city of London, employees benefit from a supportive environment that encourages professional growth and development within the music industry. With a commitment to diversity and equal treatment, BMG offers meaningful opportunities for those passionate about music law and business affairs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manager - Legal & Business Affairs
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the music industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to meet potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience and skills relevant to the role. Bring examples of your work or discuss past projects that showcase your legal expertise in the music industry. We want to see how you can add value!
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework before any interview! Research the company, understand their values, and be ready to discuss how your background fits into their mission. We love candidates who are genuinely interested in what we do and can articulate how they can contribute.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team in the Legal & Business Affairs department.
We think you need these skills to ace Manager - Legal & Business Affairs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects your experience as a music lawyer. Highlight relevant roles and responsibilities that align with the job description, especially in drafting and negotiating agreements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for the music industry and how your skills can contribute to our Legal & Business Affairs team. Be specific about your experiences and achievements.
Showcase Your Attention to Detail:In the legal field, attention to detail is crucial. Ensure your application is free from typos and errors. This not only reflects your professionalism but also your ability to manage important documents accurately.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re proactive!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bertelsmann
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Brush up on your knowledge of music law and the specific agreements you'll be dealing with. Be ready to discuss your experience with drafting and negotiating contracts, as well as any relevant legal issues in the music industry.
✨Show Your Passion for Music
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the music industry during the interview. Share examples of how your interest in music has influenced your career choices and how it aligns with the company's mission.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you had to navigate complex legal situations or disputes, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s legal operations and how they support the creative teams. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute effectively.
