At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide legal advice and support strategic growth initiatives in a leading FMCG organisation.
- Company: Join a globally recognised food manufacturing brand with a strong values-led culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, 33 days leave, and extensive employee development opportunities.
- Other info: Exceptional career progression and the chance to work with respected brands globally.
- Why this job: Shape business decisions and influence strategy while working on international legal matters.
- Qualifications: Solicitor with 6+ years’ experience in commercial contracts and in-house legal functions.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 103000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity for an experienced Legal Counsel to join a leading international FMCG organisation in Staffordshire. Working closely with senior stakeholders across the UK and international business, you will provide commercially focused legal advice, support strategic growth initiatives and play a key role in shaping business decisions.
Our client is a globally recognised food manufacturing and consumer brands business with a heritage spanning more than five decades and products sold in over 100 countries worldwide. Operating through multiple international business units and production facilities across Europe, North America, the Middle East and Africa, the organisation has built an outstanding reputation for quality, innovation and sustainable growth. With a strong values‑led culture, significant investment in employee development and a genuine commitment to collaboration, this is an organisation where people are empowered to make decisions, influence strategy and develop rewarding international careers. Employees benefit from continuous learning opportunities, global mobility programmes, flexible working practices and the chance to work alongside some of the most respected brands within the sector.
Description
- Act as the principal legal advisor to senior leadership teams across UK and international operations.
- Provide commercially focused legal advice to marketing, innovation, procurement and sales functions.
- Draft, review and negotiate a broad range of commercial agreements including sales, distribution, procurement, digital, media and professional services contracts.
- Support strategic business initiatives, product launches and marketing campaigns.
- Advise on legal and regulatory developments affecting FMCG, sustainability and commercial operations.
- Develop and enhance governance frameworks, policies and compliance programmes.
- Manage legal risk across multiple jurisdictions and business functions.
- Lead the management of disputes, litigation and settlement negotiations.
- Instruct and manage external legal advisers across international markets.
- Drive efficiencies and continuous improvement within contracting and legal processes.
Profile
- Solicitor or equivalent with a minimum of 6 years’ PQE.
- Experienced in drafting, negotiating and advising on complex commercial contracts.
- Experienced within an in‑house legal function or advising commercial organisations.
- Experienced within FMCG, food, beverage, retail or consumer sectors; candidates from wider commercial backgrounds will also be considered.
- Commercially astute with the ability to balance legal risk against business objectives.
- Confident in influencing and advising senior stakeholders.
- Able to communicate complex legal concepts in a practical and business‑focused manner.
- Comfortable operating autonomously within a fast‑paced commercial environment.
- Collaborative, solutions‑focused and capable of building trusted relationships across the business.
- Adaptable and keen to develop expertise across a broad range of legal matters.
Job Offer
This is an exceptional opportunity to join a major international consumer goods organisation in a highly visible legal position. You will work closely with senior executives and business leaders, gaining exposure to complex international legal matters while helping shape the future direction of a growing global business. Alongside a salary of £90,000‑103,000 plus bonus, the successful candidate will benefit from an 8% matched pension scheme, 33 days annual leave, hybrid working, annual salary reviews, employee wellbeing support and additional lifestyle benefits. The organisation recognises the importance of investing heavily in employee development, offering structured learning programmes, leadership development initiatives and genuine international career progression opportunities.
If you are an experienced Legal Counsel, apply now or contact Michael Bailey for more information.
Desired Skills and Experience
- Legal Counsel
- Commercial Contracts
- In‑House Legal
- FMCG
- Corporate Counsel
- Contract Negotiation
- Risk Management
- Regulatory Compliance
- Stakeholder Management
- Commercial Law
Legal Counsel employer: Michael Page Sales
Join a leading international FMCG organisation in Staffordshire, where you will thrive in a values-led culture that prioritises employee development and collaboration. With significant investment in your growth, flexible working practices, and the opportunity to work with globally recognised brands, this role as Legal Counsel offers a rewarding career path filled with continuous learning and international mobility. Experience a dynamic environment where your legal expertise will directly influence strategic business decisions and shape the future of a respected global leader in consumer goods.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Counsel
✨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 Michael Page Sales, 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 Legal Counsel
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Michael Page Sales, 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 Michael Page Sales and the specific role of 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 Michael Page Sales’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Michael Page Sales
✨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 Michael Page Sales.
✨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 Michael Page Sales.
