Business Affairs Lead

Edelman is a voice synonymous with trust, reimagining a future where the currency of communication is action. Our culture thrives on three promises: boldness is possibility, empathy is progress, and curiosity is momentum. At Edelman, we understand diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) transform our colleagues, our company, our clients, and our communities. We are in relentless pursuit of an equitable and inspiring workplace that is respectful of all, reflects and represents the world in which we live, and fosters trust, collaboration and belonging.

The business affairs role will partner with the Brand, Creative, Production, Influencer, and other teams in the business to manage projects with minimal oversight. This role reports to the Global Head of Business Affairs and will help to elevate and grow the business affairs function within the UK Market.

Key Responsibilities:

• Recommend and assist in implementing agency policy and process regarding risk management, third party contract management, production workflow to teams and senior management.
• Facilitate and review complex agreements including but not limited to talent, celebrity, influencer, and brand partnerships.
• A high degree of confidentiality and discretion are expected in regard to all matters and documents.
• Experience navigating redlines reviews and facilitating contracts conversations between stakeholders to close deals.
• Provide counsel and mitigation strategies for risks associated with content programs and contracting in digital, experiential, print, creator, and influencer.
• Identify and flag risks relating to intellectual property, the regulatory environment, Union concerns etc.
• Review and counsel on Statements of Work.
• Liaise between Production and Legal to address any specific legal/liability issues arising from a particular production.
• Knowledge of PIBS and general production agreements, media buys, and Insertion Orders.
• Work closely with internal and external legal counsel in resolving potential project liabilities and creating solutions for agency and clients.
• Handle third-party clearances and licensing (including music, stock images, software, etc.) necessary for content delivery.
• Approve and facilitate production and talent invoice approvals, and payment. Knowledge and Experience with Clearcast, CAA, and Radio Centre, preferred, along with a general understanding of UK broadcast processes.
• Review all finished assets for compliance prior to delivery.
• Securing appropriate insurances.
• Track and maintain meticulous records for all third-party material licenses.

Job Specifications / Qualifications:

• Basic understanding of legal contract provisions - especially licensing vs assignment/ownership.
• Manage legal contracting processes for Talent and Influencer Agreements.
• Experience working in Integrated and Influencer Marketing, with on and off camera and celebrities all desirable.
• Strong negotiating skills.
• Ability to identify legal issues from an early stage in the production process and manage and communicate associated risks, providing practical solutions where necessary.
• Should feel comfortable in a fast-paced environment, managing urgent deadlines while setting expectations with colleagues, organising, and reporting a variety of production details.
• Ability to work on multiple and often complex projects with a fast turn-around.
• Proven problem solver.
• Ability to manage projects with minor daily oversight, with awareness of when to escalate to legal or management.
• Knowledge and experience of working in an agency environment, understanding the needs and managing the expectations of key stakeholders across multiple clients.
• Working and developing relationships with in-house producers, account teams and external vendors.
• 10+ years of related work experience in an agency business affairs environment.