At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead JD's legal team across Europe, providing strategic advice and managing legal operations.
- Company: Join JD.com, a global leader in technology and supply chain innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive culture, global projects, and growth opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to your personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a fast-growing business while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Senior legal experience, team leadership, and strong commercial contracting skills required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
At JD. com, also known as JINGDONG, we are building one of the world’s most trusted technology and supply chain ecosystems.
What started as a bold idea in China has evolved into a NASDAQ-listed, Fortune 44 global enterprise serving over 700 million active customers.
Powered by advanced logistics, innovative technology, and a commitment to integrity, JD. com operates across retail, logistics, technology, property and more, creating solutions that make everyday life smarter, faster, and more connected.
Our Global Reach
JD. com is expanding its international footprint through a digitally intelligent, cross-border supply chain and world-class logistics network, supported by platforms such as Joybuy, which brings trusted products to customers worldwide.
Today, our teams operate across China, the U.
S., U.
K., Netherlands, France, Germany, Spain, Brazil, Hungary, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and beyond, reaching customers in every corner of the world.
- Learn more about who we are and what we do: https://corporate. jd. com/
- About The Team
Reporting to the Chief Legal and Compliance Officer, you will lead the legal team and build the in-house legal capability that underpins the establishment and expansion of JD’s businesses across the Europe region.
The business launched across six markets in March 2026 and operates as a retailer, marketplace, and logistics operator.
As JD grows, so does the legal agenda — spanning the Joybuy retail and marketplace business and the wider JD group, including logistics (JDL), property (JDP), and industrials (JDI) in EU and UK.
You will lead a team of country legal counsel and supporting lawyers across JD’s European markets, giving you both a hands‑on advisory role and genuine leadership scope.
You will have direct access to the Chief Legal and Compliance Officer and the senior business leadership of each JD business and the opportunity to shape how legal supports a fast‑growing, multi‑line business at the start of its European story.
- What You’ll Do
- Lead and develop JD’s EU legal function, managing a team of country legal counsel and supporting lawyers across the EU/UK markets, and building out the team as the business grows.
- Act as the senior legal partner to the leadership of each JD business expanding in Europe — Joybuy retail and marketplace, logistics (JDL), property (JDP), and industrials (JDI) — providing pragmatic, commercially‑minded advice on how to establish and scale operations lawfully.
- Lead the legal aspects of market entry, corporate establishment, and business expansion across new countries and new business lines, including healthcare/OTC pharmacy and private label.
- Supporting various teams with contracting — supplier, vendor, marketplace seller, logistics, real estate, leasing, technology, distribution, and partnership agreements — establishing templates, playbooks, and AI‑driven processes that allow the business to move quickly and consistently.
- Provide expert advice on commercial, corporate, real estate and disputes matters as they arise across the business, drawing on internal lawyers and managing external counsel where needed.
- Manage litigation, disputes, and pre‑litigation risk across the European businesses, and oversee the selection and management of external law firms and the associated legal budget.
- Work closely and collaborating with the Product Compliance and Government Relations teams — which lead on compliance, regulatory requirements, and engagement with regulators and policymakers — ensuring legal advice is joined up with those functions and supporting the management of legal risks.
- Set the standards, ways of working, and priorities for the legal team, embedding consistent practice across markets while remaining responsive to local law and local business needs.
- Serve as a trusted advisor to the Chief Legal and Compliance Officer and business leadership, anticipating legal risk and enabling growth rather than blocking it.
About You
- Significant post‑qualification experience as a senior in‑house or private practice lawyer, with a track record of leading legal support for complex, multi‑jurisdictional businesses in Europe.
- Qualified to practise law in a European jurisdiction; comfortable operating across multiple legal systems and instructing local counsel where needed.
- Proven experience leading and developing a legal team, including managing or coordinating lawyers across more than one country.
- Strong commercial contracting background, ideally across retail, e‑commerce/marketplace, logistics, real estate, or technology.
- Experience supporting business establishment, market entry, or rapid expansion is a significant advantage.
- Comfortable as a builder — able to create structure, process, and team in an environment where the function is still being established.
- Experience in or alongside Chinese‑owned companies operating in Europe is a significant benefit.
- Multi‑lingual and Mandarin language skills an advantage.
What We Offer
Joining JD. com means becoming part of a company where people, innovation, and impact go hand in hand.
We offer a competitive salary, a great location, and a supportive, people‑first culture where your growth truly matters.
With access to global projects, learning opportunities, and an inclusive environment that values every voice, you’ll have the space to shape the future with us.
At JD. com, we’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.
We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer and make all employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.
Ready to apply?
Take the next step in your career, apply now and explore the opportunities we have to offer.
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Head of Legal employer: JD.COM
JD.COM is an exceptional employer that prioritises professional growth and inclusivity within its overseas e-commerce team. With a focus on innovation in algorithm architecture, employees benefit from competitive salaries, a supportive work culture, and opportunities to engage in cutting-edge projects that enhance their skills in real-time data processing and microservices.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Legal
✨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 JD.COM, 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 Head of Legal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at JD.COM, 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 JD.COM and the specific role of Head of Legal. 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 JD.COM’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at JD.COM
✨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 JD.COM.
✨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 JD.COM.
