At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide legal support across various commercial matters and manage legal risks.
- Company: Growing defence SME with exciting opportunities for impact and ownership.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £100,000 and the chance to shape the legal function.
- Other info: Work closely with senior leadership and enjoy a broad remit in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real difference in a growing business.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with strong commercial legal experience; defence experience not required.
Senior/Principal Legal Counsel- Bristol- up to £100,000.
We’re looking for a Senior or Principal Legal Counsel to join our growing defence SME and provide broad, commercially focused legal support across the business.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join as sole legal counsel in the UK and join a company on the brink of extensive growth!
This is a varied role with exposure to commercial contracts, employment law, corporate matters and potentially M&A, working closely with senior leadership and teams across the organisation.
You don’t need previous defence experience.
We’re more interested in your ability to understand a business, provide pragmatic legal advice and help manage risk in a commercially sensible way.
- What you’ll be doing
- Advising the business and senior leadership on a broad range of legal and commercial matters.
- Drafting, reviewing and negotiating commercial contracts.
- Advising on employment law and employee-related matters.
- Supporting corporate activity, including potential M&A and strategic transactions.
- Managing legal risk and working with the business to find practical solutions.
- Working with and managing external legal advisers where required.
- Helping develop legal processes, contracts and policies as the company continues to grow.
About you
We’re looking for a qualified solicitor with strong commercial legal experience, ideally with experience across contracts and employment law.
Corporate/M&A experience would be an advantage.
You could be an experienced in-house lawyer looking for a broader role, or a solicitor currently working in private practice who is ready to make the move in-house.
Most importantly, you’ll be commercially minded, pragmatic and confident working with senior stakeholders.
You’ll enjoy having a broad remit and being part of a growing business where you can make a real impact.
Defence experience is not essential — we’re open to candidates from a range of sectors with strong transferable commercial legal experience.
The opportunity
This is a great opportunity to join a growing SME at an exciting stage of its development, with the chance to work closely with senior leadership, take ownership of a broad range of legal matters and help shape the legal function as the business grows.
Interested? We’d love to hear from you. Please contact Victoria at Copello on (phone number removed)
Senior Legal Counsel in Bristol employer: Copello
As a Contracts & Subcontracts Manager at our company, you will thrive in a dynamic work environment that values collaboration and innovation. With flexible working arrangements and a strong commitment to employee development, we offer numerous opportunities for growth and advancement, all while being part of a supportive team in the vibrant cities of Gloucester or Manchester. Join us to make a meaningful impact in your career while enjoying a healthy work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal Counsel in Bristol
✨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 Copello, 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 Senior Legal Counsel in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Copello, 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 Copello and the specific role of Senior Legal 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 Copello’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Copello
✨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 Copello.
✨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 Copello.
