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- Tasks: Support the Head of Legal Services in delivering business strategy and maintaining a top-notch legal department.
- Company: FirstBank UK is a leading global bank with over 10 million customers, offering diverse financial services.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work, generous pension contributions, private medical insurance, gym subsidies, and 25+ days annual leave.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team, make an impact in legal operations, and thrive in a supportive, innovative culture.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor in England & Wales with PQE, experience in financial institutions, and strong communication skills.
- Other info: This role offers a unique opportunity to work in a historic bank with a focus on emerging markets.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Legal Counsel
FirstBank UK is a globally recognised, top-tier bank who provide world-class services to various institutions and individuals. Offering a comprehensive range of retail and corporate financial services/products, this thriving business with over 10 million active customers in over 700 business locations is the oldest African bank in the UK. Due to business requirements, we are now looking to acquire the services of an experienced Legal Counsel.
- Please note that this is a hybrid role (3 days in the office, 2 days from home)
In this role, you will be part of the team supporting the Head of Legal Services to plan ahead and deliver our business strategy in line with our long-term goals and to build and maintain a first class in house legal department which ensures an efficient, hands-on and customer-centric service to the Bank and its clients.
Key Responsibilities:
- To assist in the review of, and the provision of advice on, transactional legal documentation in respect of the Bank’s business, including facility documentation in respect of the Bank’s lending portfolio.
- To review and advise on third party contracts, NDAs and commercial agreements as well as advise on legal queries received by the Legal Department from other areas of the Bank.
- To assist in the development and update of internal legal standardised documentation, departmental and business focused checklists.
- To undertake legal horizon scanning and support the preparation of periodic reports with findings and liaise with other stakeholders where required.
- To undertake legal research, prepare memoranda of advice and develop and maintain the legal knowledge database.
- To support the maintenance of legal adequate legal procedures and processes including the maintenance of registers, files and records.
- To support the development of a legal risk management framework.
- To support the implementation and maintenance of legal operations tools and initiatives.
- To manage vendor onboarding and periodic review for the Legal Department.
Key Skills/Experience:
- With (Post-Qualified Experience, (PQE) having qualified in private practice and gained experience as in-house counsel at a financial institution as a generalist but with a focus on cross-border emerging markets finance (including energy, national resources, oil, gas, infrastructure, trade finance).
- Good understanding of the regulatory environment the Bank operates in. Knowledge or and/or experience in private banking is a plus.
- Keen interest in legal technology.
- Qualified to practice as a solicitor in England and Wales. Law degree: England & Wales
- Strong communicator, results orientated, good at time management and building trust and credibility.
- Must be driven, articulate, proactive, flexible, approachable, and pragmatic. Must consider and evaluate risk in their approach.
In return we offer a fantastic benefits package including:
- Up to 10% employer pension contribution
- Life Assurance Cover
- Income protection
- Private Medical Insurance plan (upon successful completion of probation period)
- Contribution to glasses/contacts and eye testing
- Gym subsidy (up to £50 per month)
- Cycle to work scheme
- Employee Assistance Program
- Interest Free season ticket loan for travel
- Birthday Leave
- 25 days annual leave, rising to 28 after 3 years and 30 after 8 years’ service
- Give As You Earn (GAYE)
The Curve Group is First Bank UK’s outsource partner for Recruitment and a \”Data Processor\”. The Curve Group will hold the information you submit but First Bank UK will have access to it. You can find their privacy policy here:
First Bank is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.
Legal Counsel employer: FirstBank UK Limited
Contact Detail:
FirstBank UK Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Counsel
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with FirstBank UK's operations and their specific legal needs. Understanding the bank's focus on cross-border emerging markets finance will help you tailor your discussions during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the banking and legal sectors, especially those who have experience in in-house roles. This can provide you with insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest trends in legal technology and regulatory changes affecting the banking sector. Demonstrating your knowledge in these areas can set you apart as a proactive candidate who is ready to contribute from day one.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to risk management and how it aligns with the bank's goals. Being able to articulate your thought process and past experiences in this area will show that you are a strategic thinker, which is crucial for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Counsel
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Legal Counsel position at FirstBank UK. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in transactional legal documentation and in-house counsel work.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your Post-Qualified Experience (PQE) and any specific experience you have in cross-border emerging markets finance. Mention your understanding of the regulatory environment and any knowledge of private banking.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should not only express your interest in the role but also demonstrate your communication skills. Use it to explain how your proactive and results-oriented approach aligns with the values of FirstBank UK.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or typos. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a legal role.
How to prepare for a job interview at FirstBank UK Limited
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the key responsibilities of the Legal Counsel position. Familiarise yourself with the types of legal documentation you'll be reviewing and the specific areas of law relevant to the bank's operations.
✨Showcase Your Relevant Experience
Be prepared to discuss your Post-Qualified Experience (PQE) and how it relates to the role. Highlight your experience in private practice and as in-house counsel, especially in cross-border emerging markets finance, to demonstrate your suitability for the position.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Regulatory Environments
Since the bank operates within a specific regulatory framework, it's crucial to show that you have a good understanding of this environment. Be ready to discuss any relevant regulations and how they impact the bank's operations.
✨Emphasise Soft Skills and Cultural Fit
In addition to your legal expertise, the bank is looking for someone who is proactive, approachable, and a strong communicator. Prepare examples that showcase your ability to build trust and credibility, manage time effectively, and evaluate risk in your decision-making.
