At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal and business affairs for exciting scripted TV and film projects.
- Company: Award-winning independent production company with a creative and collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, strategic influence, and the chance to shape high-profile projects.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic and influential environment.
- Why this job: Join a respected team and make a real impact in the entertainment industry.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with extensive media legal experience and strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
An award-winning independent scripted television and film production company is looking for a Head of Legal & Business Affairs to lead its legal and business affairs function. This is a rare opportunity to join a highly respected producer of premium scripted content, working alongside senior executives, producers and creative talent on a diverse slate of television and film projects.
Reporting directly to the CEO and Commercial Director, you will lead a small but experienced Business Affairs team while acting as a trusted strategic adviser across every stage of the production lifecycle—from development and financing through production, delivery and distribution.
The Role
You will take ownership of negotiating, drafting and concluding a wide variety of commercial agreements, including:
- Talent, writer and contributor agreements
- Development and commissioning agreements
- Option, book licence and underlying rights agreements
- Co-production and financing arrangements
- Distribution agreements
- Production services and other production-related contracts
- Rights acquisitions and exploitation agreements
Working closely with production, commercial and finance teams, you will provide pragmatic legal and commercial advice, helping to identify risks, protect valuable IP, support rights strategies and enable productions to move forward efficiently. Alongside your transactional work, you will lead and develop the Business Affairs team, oversee precedent documentation and legal processes, manage complex and occasionally contentious matters, and build strong relationships with broadcasters, distributors, financiers, rights holders and other key industry partners.
About You
You will be a qualified solicitor (or possess equivalent in-house experience) with substantial Business Affairs or media legal experience gained within television, film or the wider entertainment sector. You'll bring:
- Extensive experience negotiating and drafting complex production, development and rights agreements
- Strong expertise in copyright, intellectual property, contract and trade mark law
- Excellent knowledge of the UK television production landscape, including broadcaster Terms of Trade and relevant collective bargaining agreements
- Proven experience leading sophisticated commercial negotiations
- A commercially minded approach with the ability to balance legal risk against business objectives
- Outstanding drafting, communication and stakeholder management skills
- Previous experience leading, mentoring and developing a legal or business affairs team
- Knowledge of the US television market and UK data protection legislation would be advantageous.
This is an opportunity to play a pivotal role within one of the UK's most respected independent production businesses, working on high-profile scripted television and feature film projects with leading writers, producers, broadcasters and international partners. You will join a collaborative, creative environment where legal and business affairs sits at the heart of the business, offering genuine strategic influence, varied work and the opportunity to shape the future of an ambitious production company.
HEAD OF LEGAL & BUSINESS AFFAIRS in London employer: Kinsella Legal Limited
Kinsella Legal Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration in the heart of Central London. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide ample opportunities for professional development and advancement within the dynamic fields of theatrical and entertainment law. Join us to be part of a respected rights management organisation where your expertise will make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HEAD OF LEGAL & BUSINESS AFFAIRS 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 Kinsella Legal Limited, 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 & BUSINESS AFFAIRS in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Kinsella Legal Limited, 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 Kinsella Legal Limited and the specific role of HEAD OF LEGAL & BUSINESS AFFAIRS. 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 Kinsella Legal Limited’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kinsella Legal Limited
✨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 Kinsella Legal Limited.
✨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 Kinsella Legal Limited.
