At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal governance and compliance for a dynamic retail brand.
- Company: Footasylum, a trend-setting UK retailer in streetwear and sportswear.
- Benefits: Flexible 3-day work week, competitive salary, and growth opportunities.
- Other info: Join a fast-paced environment with a strong emphasis on digital transformation.
- Why this job: Be a key player in shaping legal strategy for an innovative retail leader.
- Qualifications: Legal expertise with a focus on retail, compliance, and risk management.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Footasylum is a leading UK-based retailer specialising in streetwear and sportswear, committed to delivering innovative and trend‑setting products to our customers, with a strong focus on digital transformation and data‑driven decision‑making.
The role involves overseeing all legal, governance, and compliance across the business. Operating as a trusted advisor to the Executive Team and Board, the role supports Footasylum's commercial objectives while managing legal risk across retail operations, e‑commerce, supply chain, brand protection, and international growth. This role blends strategic counsel with hands‑on leadership in a fast‑paced, consumer‑focused retail environment.
Responsibilities:
- Lead corporate governance for Footasylum, ensuring compliance with statutory, regulatory, and shareholder requirements.
- Act as principal legal advisor to the CEO, Executive Leadership Team and Board.
- Identify, manage and mitigate legal and regulatory risk across the business.
- Provide pragmatic, commercial legal advice aligned to Footasylum's growth and brand strategy.
- Support major strategic initiatives including store expansion, partnerships, acquisitions, and international development.
- Embed legal insight early into business planning and decision making.
- Oversee Board processes, including resolutions, policies, and reporting.
- Maintain effective risk management frameworks and legal controls.
- Lead legal support for UK and international retail operations, including store leases, property matters, and landlord negotiation.
- Advise on consumer law, pricing, promotions, returns, and customer complaints.
- Draft, negotiate and manage high‑value commercial contracts (suppliers, distributors, logistics, technology, sponsorships).
- Support e‑commerce operations, digital platforms, and omnichannel trading.
- Protect and manage Footasylum's intellectual property, including trademarks, branding, and licensing.
- Advise marketing and brand teams on advertising standards, influencer partnerships, sponsorships, and promotions.
- Manage brand risk and reputational issues.
- Ensure compliance with data protection (GDPR), competition law, modern slavery, ESG and sustainability obligations.
- Oversee regulatory relationships and responses where required.
- Monitor legislative and regulatory developments impacting the retail and consumer landscape.
- Lead developing and mentoring the in‑house legal team, including personally overseeing an SQE candidate completing their QWE and certifying such steps with the SRA.
- Manage external legal advisers, controlling quality, cost, and risk.
- Deliver efficient, scalable legal processes appropriate for a high‑growth retail business.
Legal Counsel - 3 Days a Week employer: Footasylum
Footasylum is an exceptional employer that champions a dynamic and inclusive work culture, fostering innovation and collaboration within the fast-paced retail sector. With a strong commitment to employee development, we offer unique opportunities for growth, including mentoring for aspiring legal professionals, while our focus on digital transformation ensures that you will be at the forefront of industry advancements. Join us in Manchester, where you can make a meaningful impact as part of a team dedicated to pushing boundaries and achieving commercial success.
