At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our commercial team as a junior lawyer, handling diverse legal documentation and providing advice.
- Company: BGC Partners is a global leader in wholesale brokerage and technology solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth and autonomy.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-paced team, making a real impact in the financial services sector.
- Qualifications: Must be an English or Commonwealth qualified lawyer with 3+ years PQE, preferably in financial services.
- Other info: Immediate start available; flexible working hours beyond the standard 9 am to 6 pm.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
A junior lawyer within the commercial team. The team services the European, Middle East and APAC wholesale brokerage businesses of BGC, GFI, Aurel & Sunrise and the global FENICS technology businesses. This role involves regular interaction with internal business stakeholders and management. There is a genuine global dimension to the remit as well as substantial autonomy, ownership and responsibility. The environment is fast paced with a demanding customer base therefore the role requires a person who is able to manage pressure and can commit and work to deadlines. The contractual hours are 9 am to 6 pm but these are regarded as the minimum working hours. For immediate start.
Key responsibilities:
- Dealing with internal stakeholders/clients and external customers and/or service providers to ensure smooth delivery of legal documentation within an orderly time scale.
- Reviewing, drafting, negotiating a wide range of agreements and providing legal advice on associated business issues. Agreement types include: IB agreements, Terms of Business, brokerage rates agreements, commission sharing and netting agreements, confidentiality agreements, licenses, services agreements, technology contracts, intra group agreements, bank guarantees, engagement letters, clearing, custody and collateral agreements and marketing agreements and other agreements as required.
- General commercial advice.
- M&A – periodically assisting the Corporate team, including confidentiality, due diligence and document reviews.
- Projects – periodically being involved in new corporate projects, which may include new offices, internal reorganisations, joint ventures and advising on the implementation of regulatory changes.
Skills / experience required:
- English or Commonwealth qualified lawyer with approximately 3+ years PQE.
- Financial Services experience is key.
- Additional experience from one or more of the following areas would also be beneficial but not essential – compliance, intellectual property, structured products or derivatives.
Systems used:
- Usual Microsoft and other systems. Knowledge and experience of documentation management systems would be useful.
Personal attributes:
- The department is always very lively and busy so the candidate should be able to deal with competing demands in a mature and sensible way as well as building a good rapport with stakeholders and colleagues.
Working effectively:
- Self-starter and capable of working independently with minimal supervision.
- Confident to tackle a wide range of issues.
- Takes ownership of requirements/issues and ensures they are resolved to meet objectives with agreed timeframes.
- Very organised, disciplined and responsive.
Client focus:
- Demonstrates an understanding of clients and their commercial needs.
- Ability to work closely with other departments in the front and back office.
Communications:
- Is able to liaise with and give guidance to the business and other departments in a concise, and effective manner.
- Shares knowledge/experience with team.
- Strong developed written and verbal communication skills.
- Good reporting skills.
Legal Counsel – Commercial employer: BGC Group
Contact Detail:
BGC Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Counsel – Commercial
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific types of agreements mentioned in the job description. Understanding IB agreements, confidentiality agreements, and technology contracts will give you an edge during interviews, as you can demonstrate your knowledge and readiness to handle these documents.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the financial services sector, especially those who have experience in commercial law. Engaging with industry contacts can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals, which can significantly boost your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for a fast-paced environment by honing your time management skills. Practice prioritising tasks and managing competing demands effectively, as this is crucial for success in a role that requires meeting tight deadlines and handling multiple responsibilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your ability to communicate clearly and concisely. During any interactions or interviews, focus on articulating your thoughts effectively, as strong communication skills are essential for liaising with stakeholders and providing legal advice.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Counsel – Commercial
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, particularly in financial services and commercial law. Emphasise your 3+ years PQE and any specific agreements you've worked on that align with the job description.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, demonstrate your understanding of the role and the company. Mention your ability to manage pressure and deadlines, and provide examples of how you've successfully navigated similar environments in the past.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since strong communication skills are essential for this role, include examples in your application that illustrate your ability to liaise effectively with stakeholders and provide concise legal advice.
Highlight Autonomy and Organisation: Discuss your experience as a self-starter who can work independently. Provide specific instances where you took ownership of projects or issues and how you ensured they were resolved within agreed timeframes.
How to prepare for a job interview at BGC Group
✨Know Your Legal Basics
Brush up on your knowledge of commercial law, especially in relation to the types of agreements mentioned in the job description. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach drafting and negotiating these documents.
✨Demonstrate Client Focus
Showcase your understanding of client needs and how you can address them. Prepare examples from your past experience where you successfully managed client relationships or resolved issues effectively.
✨Highlight Your Autonomy
Since the role requires substantial autonomy, be ready to share instances where you took ownership of a project or task. Discuss how you manage your time and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
✨Effective Communication Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your strong written and verbal communication skills. You might be asked to explain complex legal concepts in simple terms, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely.