At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal and business support for Film4's film projects from development to distribution.
- Company: Channel 4, a dynamic media organisation with a focus on innovative content.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Mentorship opportunities and a collaborative work environment await you.
- Why this job: Join a creative team and shape the future of film in a vibrant industry.
- Qualifications: Experienced lawyer with a background in commercial and entertainment law.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 € per year.
Commercial Affairs is responsible for the financial, legal and business aspects of Channel 4’s content supply, and is tasked with negotiating all contractual, financial and other deal terms between Channel 4 and content suppliers. Film4 is the division of Channel 4 which develops/finances/produces feature films for theatrical release and broadcast on the Channel. The purpose of the role is to provide legal and business affairs support to Film4.
Key Responsibilities
- Taking a senior role in the legal & business support provided to the Film4 commissioning and sales/distribution teams with respect to all stages of film developments, financing, production and sales/distribution.
- Reviewing/drafting/negotiating all agreements and documentation in respect of film productions, including (without limitation) all production financing and distribution agreements, sales agency agreements, chain of title documents, completion guarantee documents, inter-party and mutual funding agreements, key cast & crew agreements, co-production agreements, security agreements; and reporting and advising on those documents to Film4 and negotiating terms with the relevant third parties.
- With oversight from Head of Legal & Business Affairs, reviewing finance plans for productions and negotiating Film4’s recoupment position in respect of its investment in productions, as well as conducting appropriate due diligence in relation to Film4’s investment and preparing project appraisal papers for the Greenlight committee.
- Drafting and negotiating standard development agreements with independent producers and reviewing and negotiating terms for development deals with screenwriters, directors and other development contributors.
- Reviewing/drafting all underlying rights agreements and chain of title and advising Film4/assisting producers with chain of title and clearance issues.
- Drafting and negotiating Film4 licence agreements in respect of Free Television and related VOD rights and dealing with all new media and cross platform aspects of productions (together with accompanying rights, windowing and clearance issues) and liaising with the relevant internal departments (eg: Acquisitions/Rights).
- Dealing with miscellaneous legal issues relevant to general Film4 business, including tax issues (eg: UK Tax Credit), Guild agreements and film policy as well as helping implement department and Channel wide projects and initiatives.
- Drafting and maintaining know-how materials and information as relevant to general Film4 business and supervising/mentoring junior members of Film4 BA team.
- Assisting with, where required, and monitoring local PFC paperwork and status lists and routine review of system reporting within Commercial Affairs.
- Assisting with, where required, maintenance of rights, options and other databases.
- Attending commissioning and legal routines and other meetings (external and internal).
Skills and Experience
- Lawyer with significant post qualification experience, or equivalent.
- Proven track record specialising in commercial and entertainment law, with an emphasis on film financing, production and distribution, contract law and copyright.
- Ideally prior experience in a media legal practice and/or “in-house” legal experience in a media/production company, film financing company or broadcaster.
- Strong drafting and negotiation skills.
- Sound understanding of film development, financing and production, in particular, the complex issues arising and competing interests of the various parties involved in film financings.
- Strong business acumen/commercial judgement and proactive problem solving attitude.
- Strong interpersonal skills are essential.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a diverse team environment.
- Mentoring junior team members and role modelling senior team member behaviours through proactive information sharing and an open and inclusive communication style.
- Excellent administrative/organisational skills.
- Ability to work autonomously / take lead on film financing closing transactions.
- Familiarity with wider media issues including distribution, new media and cross platform issues and demonstration of an understanding of the issues affecting Channel 4 and its remit.
Senior Legal & Business Affairs Manager in London employer: Channel 4
Channel 4 is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where creativity and innovation thrive. As a Senior Legal & Business Affairs Manager, you will benefit from a collaborative culture that values professional growth, with opportunities to mentor junior team members and engage in high-profile film projects. The company supports a diverse workforce and provides comprehensive benefits, ensuring that employees are well-equipped to excel in their roles while contributing to meaningful content creation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal & Business Affairs Manager in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry folks, especially those in film financing and production. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy to reach out on LinkedIn – you never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your experience in commercial and entertainment law. Include examples of contracts you've negotiated or projects you've worked on. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Before any interview, rehearse common questions related to legal and business affairs in film. Think about how you’d handle specific scenarios or challenges in the industry. This will help you feel more confident and articulate during the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you. Make sure to tailor your application to highlight your relevant skills and experiences. It’s your chance to shine, so don’t hold back!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Legal & Business Affairs Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Legal & Business Affairs Manager role. Highlight your experience in commercial and entertainment law, especially in film financing and production. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about Film4 and how your background makes you the perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention any relevant projects or experiences that showcase your legal expertise.
Show Off Your Negotiation Skills:Since negotiation is key in this role, include examples of successful negotiations you've led or been part of. We love seeing how you’ve navigated complex agreements and achieved positive outcomes!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Channel 4
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of commercial and entertainment law, especially around film financing and production. Be ready to discuss specific legal issues you've encountered in past roles and how you navigated them.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of successful negotiations you've led or been a part of. Highlight your approach to resolving conflicts and reaching agreements, as this role will require strong negotiation skills with various stakeholders.
✨Understand Film4's Landscape
Familiarise yourself with Film4’s recent projects and the broader media landscape. Being able to discuss current trends and challenges in film financing and distribution will show your genuine interest and understanding of the industry.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Mentoring
Since this role involves mentoring junior team members, be prepared to share your experiences in leadership. Discuss how you've supported others in their professional development and how you foster an inclusive team environment.
