At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide legal advice on commercial, procurement, and data protection matters.
- Company: Join the FCA, a key regulator in UK financial services.
- Benefits: Generous leave, private healthcare, and flexible benefits tailored to you.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Kickstart your legal career with mentorship and real impact on UK finance.
- Qualifications: Qualified lawyer with up to 3 years' experience in commercial law.
The predicted salary is between 52000 - 62900 £ per year.
We regulate financial services firms in the UK, to keep financial markets fair, thriving and effective. By joining us, you'll play a key part in protecting consumers, driving economic growth and shaping the future of UK finance services.
This is an exciting time to join the FCA as we transform to become a smarter regulator, being more innovative, data-led and outcomes-focused. The Operations Legal team provides legal advice to colleagues across the FCA on a range of operational matters, focusing on commercial, data protection and procurement law. This role would suit someone at an early stage of their legal career and is an excellent opportunity to join a supportive and collaborative team where learning and development are actively encouraged. Working alongside experienced specialist lawyers, you will receive close supervision, mentoring and guidance to help you develop your technical expertise and professional skills. The role offers substantial opportunities to gain experience, take on increasing responsibility and progress your career in a supportive environment.
Role responsibilities
- Provide practical legal advice on a broad range of commercial, procurement, data protection and operational matters
- Draft, review and negotiate commercial contracts, licences, NDAs, secondment agreements and other business arrangements
- Advise on supplier and procurement issues, including contract changes, extensions and strategic commercial relationships
- Support legal matters relating to the FCA Handbook, digital services, websites and business continuity arrangements
- Advise on data protection, confidentiality, information sharing and information governance issues
- Develop and maintain legal templates, playbooks, guidance and training materials to support the wider business
- Build effective relationships with stakeholders across the FCA and external advisers, providing clear and solution-focused advice
- Identify legal and regulatory risks and work with specialist teams to ensure appropriate management and escalation where required
- Support estates projects, academic collaborations and other corporate initiatives across the organisation
Skills required
- Minimum: Qualified Lawyer (Solicitor, barrister, Chartered Legal Executive, or equivalent legal professional) typically from newly qualified (NQ) up to 3 years' PQE
- Experience as a practising lawyer, in the public sector, private practice or in house legal team
- Relevant experience in general commercial law / commercial contracts. Experience also in public procurement, data protection and/or technology-related legal issues would be beneficial
- Essential: Effective communication and analytical skills, with the ability to present complex issues in a clear, concise and effective manner
- Ability to learn new or novel legal concepts rapidly, demonstrating self-motivation while working under the guidance and support of senior colleagues
- Practical problem-solving skills, with the ability to deliver pragmatic, outcome-focused advice and communicate intricate legal issues clearly to non-legal stakeholders
- Effective organisational skills, with demonstrable experience managing competing priorities and delivering high-quality work to strict deadlines
- Good interpersonal skills, with the ability to build, sustain and leverage positive professional relationships across the organisation
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Non-contributory pension (8-12% depending on age) and life assurance at eight times your salary
- Private healthcare with Bupa, income protection and 24/7 Employee Assistance
- 35 hours of paid volunteering annually
- Colleagues spend a minimum of 50% of their working time in the office each month (60% for Directors and Executive Directors) across our London, Leeds and Edinburgh offices
- A flexible benefits scheme designed around your lifestyle
Our colleagues are the key to our success as a regulator. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive culture: one that's free from discrimination and bias, celebrates difference and supports colleagues to deliver at their best.
Commercial Lawyer employer: FCA
As a Senior/Supervising Social Worker with us, you will enjoy a supportive and flexible work culture that prioritises your well-being and professional growth. With generous benefits including a competitive salary, extensive annual leave, and a comprehensive employee discount scheme, we are committed to fostering a rewarding environment for our team members in Hull and East Yorkshire. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying the advantages of remote work and a strong community focus.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Lawyer
✨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 FCA, 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 Commercial Lawyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at FCA, 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 FCA and the specific role of Commercial Lawyer. 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 FCA’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at FCA
✨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 FCA.
✨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 FCA.
