Our client is a venture-backed technology company experiencing rapid growth and international expansion. Having recently surpassed a $1 billion valuation and achieved unicorn status, the business is entering a pivotal phase of growth. With a strong leadership team, innovative technology, and a culture that values ownership and impact, this is a unique opportunity to join a company shaping the future of its industry.
This is a rare opportunity for an experienced commercial lawyer to take ownership of a legal function from the ground up. Reporting directly to the Director of Legal, the successful candidate will lead commercial contracting activities across the business, partnering closely with commercial, operational, and engineering teams.
The role offers significant autonomy and influence, making it ideal for someone who enjoys building processes, shaping legal strategy, and operating in a fast-paced, high-growth environment. The successful candidate will play a key role in establishing scalable contracting frameworks while leveraging AI and automation to drive efficiency.
Key Responsibilities- Lead the drafting, review, negotiation, and execution of a broad range of commercial agreements with customers, suppliers, partners, and resellers.
- Manage the full contract lifecycle from intake and triage through to execution and post-signature obligations.
- Develop and maintain contract templates, negotiation playbooks, fallback positions, and standard terms.
- Build scalable legal processes and workflows that support business growth while effectively managing risk.
- Leverage AI tools and automation to streamline contracting processes, improve efficiency, and reduce turnaround times.
- Advise stakeholders on key commercial legal issues, including liability, indemnities, intellectual property, data protection, warranties, service levels, and termination rights.
- Partner closely with Sales, Procurement, Operations, and Engineering teams to support commercial objectives and negotiate pragmatic outcomes.
- Provide day-to-day legal guidance across a range of commercial matters.
- Manage relationships with external legal advisers where specialist support is required.
- Support the implementation and optimisation of legal technology, contract lifecycle management systems, and AI-enabled legal tools.
- Qualified solicitor in England & Wales (or equivalent jurisdiction) with approximately 6–10 years' post-qualification experience.
- Trained and qualified within a leading City, national, or international law firm.
- Strong experience negotiating and managing complex commercial contracts from inception through to completion.
- Excellent drafting skills with the ability to create scalable legal documentation and frameworks.
- Demonstrable experience using AI tools within legal practice and a strong understanding of how technology can improve legal operations.
- A systems-oriented mindset with a focus on automation, efficiency, and process improvement.
- Commercially minded, pragmatic, and comfortable making decisions independently.
- Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence across technical and non-technical teams.
- Clear, concise, and confident communicator.
- Previous in-house experience within a technology-led business.
- Exposure to hardware, infrastructure, manufacturing, semiconductor, or other deep-tech sectors.
- Experience supporting enterprise customer contracts.
- Knowledge of intellectual property licensing, export controls, and data protection matters.
- Experience implementing or managing contract lifecycle management systems or legal AI platforms.
- Familiarity with low-code or workflow automation tools such as Python, SQL, Zapier, n8n, or similar technologies.
- Competitive base salary depending on experience, skills, and location.
- Meaningful equity participation, providing the opportunity to share in the success of a recently minted unicorn business.
- Additional annual location-based bonus for employees living within close proximity to the office.
- Comprehensive private medical and dental cover.
- 25 days annual leave plus UK bank holidays.
- Access to premium equipment and technology to support high-performance working.
- Modern office environment designed for productivity and collaboration.
- Additional workplace benefits including meals when working late, wellness support, and other employee-focused perks.
- The opportunity to join a category-defining technology company at a pivotal stage of growth and play a foundational role in shaping its legal function.
For a confidential chat, contact Andelize at
Contact Details:
Heriot Brown In-House Legal Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Commercial Legal Counsel in London
✨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 Heriot Brown In-House Legal Recruitment, 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.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Heriot Brown In-House Legal Recruitment, 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 Heriot Brown In-House Legal Recruitment and the specific role of Senior Commercial Legal Counsel. 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 Heriot Brown In-House Legal Recruitment’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heriot Brown In-House Legal Recruitment
✨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 Heriot Brown In-House Legal Recruitment.
✨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 Heriot Brown In-House Legal Recruitment.
