General Counsel in Manchester

Escode, a global leader in software escrow solutions and part of NCC Group, is dedicated to protecting businesses from unforeseen disruptions. We ensure that business-critical software applications and source code are safe, secure, and always available. As a trusted intermediary for some of the world’s best-known brands, we safeguard access to vital code and digital assets, ensuring business continuity and the protection of software investments.

With over 40 years of experience, Escode pioneered the software escrow category in 1988, recognising the growing technology dependence of businesses and the need for a safety mechanism. We are proud to set industry standards and shape its direction, providing unparalleled expertise and reliability.

Opportunity: The General Counsel serves as the organization’s chief legal officer, responsible for managing all legal affairs and ensuring compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies. This role provides strategic legal advice, oversees risk management, and leads the development of a robust compliance framework to safeguard the organization’s integrity and reputation.

Key Accountabilities:

• Legal Strategy & Advisory: Provide strategic legal advice to the executive team and board on corporate, commercial, and regulatory matters.
• Manage outside counsel for corporate, finance, litigation, employment, real estate, and other matters.
• Stay informed about changes in laws and regulations that may impact the organization and provide guidance accordingly.
• Advise on mergers, acquisitions, and other strategic transactions.

Governance:

• Ensure adherence to corporate governance standards and support board activities.
• Maintain accurate records and filings with regulatory bodies.
• Develop and oversee policies and procedures to ensure transparency and accountability across all business operations.
• Support board committees (e.g., Audit & Risk) with legal and compliance expertise.
• Lead and manage the legal and compliance teams.
• Collaborate with various departments to understand their contractual needs and provide solutions that meet business objectives.
• Embed compliance into business processes through proactive engagement with internal stakeholders.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive compliance program aligned with regulatory and industry standards.
• Monitor changes in laws, regulations, and standards, advising leadership on implications.
• Oversee internal audits and investigations related to compliance breaches.

Significant relevant experience gained at a mix of top tier law firm and as in-house counsel. Law degree and admittance to practice with a current practicing certificate or right to be admitted in a jurisdiction in which Escode operates. Experience in and thorough understanding of corporate law, contract law, data protection laws, M&A and intellectual property. Experience across various jurisdictions preferred. Experience and proven skills in drafting and negotiating commercial contracts, purchase agreements, merger and acquisition documents, related documentation, and corporate documents. Ability to translate legal complexities into terms readily understood by management and line personnel.

Behaviours:

• Focusing on Clients and Customers
• Being Inclusive and Respectful
• Enabling Performance
• Delivers Brilliantly

About your application: We review every application received and will get in touch if your skills and experience match what we’re looking for. If you don’t hear back from us within 10 days, please don’t be too disappointed – we may keep your CV on our database for any future vacancies and we would encourage you to keep an eye on our career opportunities as there may be other suitable roles. If you do not want us to retain your details, please email. All personal data is held in accordance with the NCC Group Privacy Policy. We are committed to diversity and flexibility in the workplace. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support you during the application process, please tell us at any stage. Please note that this role involves mandatory pre-employment background checks due to the nature of the work NCC Group does. To apply, you must be willing and able to undergo the vetting process. This role being advertised will be subject to BS7858 screening as a mandatory requirement.