At a Glance
- Tasks: Negotiate and manage commercial contracts while advising on legal matters.
- Company: Join Howden UK & Ireland, a dynamic player in the insurance sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexibility, autonomy, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a growing team that values innovation and supports your development.
- Qualifications: UK-qualified solicitor with 2+ years' experience, preferably in insurance.
- Other info: No Irish legal qualification required; work with a global network of legal experts.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Job Description
Reporting to: Senior Legal Counsel / General Counsel.
Contract Type: Full-time
About the Role
This is a newly created position within Howden UK & Ireland’s growing legal team. The role has been introduced to support the legal needs of a diverse and expanding business that operates across personal and commercial lines, MGAs, specialty insurance, and reinsurance.
As Legal Counsel, you will provide broad-ranging legal support with a strong focus on commercial contract negotiation and lifecycle management. While the position involves advising on matters relating to our Irish operations, an Irish legal qualification is not required.
You will work closely with the wider UK & Ireland legal team (currently seven lawyers), as well as legal colleagues across Howden’s global network. The position offers meaningful variety, autonomy, and the chance to be part of a close-knit and collaborative in-house legal function.
Key Responsibilities
- Review, negotiate and advise on commercial and industry-specific agreements
- Draft contract templates and playbooks
- Support supplier onboarding and contract lifecycle processes
- Provide training and guidance to business stakeholders
- Advise on vendor relationships, renewals, and service launches
- Liaise with internal and external legal experts across jurisdictions
- Support integration activity post-transaction
- Respond to ad hoc legal queries and provide practical, commercial legal advice
What We’re Looking For
- UK-qualified solicitor with 2+ years’ PQE
- Background in private practice or in-house (insurance sector experience preferred)
- Confident drafting and negotiating commercial contracts
- Able to work autonomously and manage legal risk pragmatically
- Excellent communication skills with a collaborative and business-friendly approach
- Flexible, proactive and resilient with a strong commercial mindset
- Experience working with cross-functional teams
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a dynamic and growing legal team
- Work with a business that values its people and supports flexibility
- Gain exposure to a wide range of commercial and strategic legal matters
- Join a purpose-driven organisation with an entrepreneurial culture
Junior Contracts Lawyer employer: Kingsley Green Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Kingsley Green Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Contracts Lawyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the insurance sector, especially in relation to commercial contracts. Understanding industry-specific agreements will give you an edge during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the legal field, particularly those working in-house or within the insurance sector. Attend relevant events or webinars to make connections that could lead to valuable insights or referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with contract negotiation and lifecycle management in detail. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully navigated complex agreements in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your collaborative skills by highlighting any cross-functional projects you've been involved in. This will demonstrate your ability to work well with diverse teams, which is crucial for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Contracts Lawyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, particularly in commercial contract negotiation and any legal roles you've held. Emphasise your qualifications and skills that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the role and the company. Mention your experience in the insurance sector, your ability to work autonomously, and how you can contribute to the team.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, focus on specific examples from your past roles where you successfully negotiated contracts or provided legal advice. This will demonstrate your capability and fit for the position.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for this role, ensure your application reflects your ability to convey complex legal concepts clearly. Use concise language and a professional tone throughout your documents.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kingsley Green Recruitment
✨Know Your Contracts
Familiarise yourself with common commercial contracts and industry-specific agreements. Be prepared to discuss your experience in drafting and negotiating these types of documents, as this will be a key part of the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role requires excellent communication skills, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be ready to demonstrate how you've effectively collaborated with cross-functional teams in the past.
✨Understand the Business
Research Howden UK & Ireland and its operations. Understanding their business model and the legal challenges they face will help you provide relevant examples during the interview and show your genuine interest in the company.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Anticipate questions that may ask how you would handle specific legal scenarios or challenges. Think about your approach to managing legal risks and providing practical advice, as this will highlight your problem-solving abilities.