At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead litigation and dispute resolution, managing a team of legal professionals.
- Company: Join a purpose-led housing organisation making a real difference in communities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, generous leave, and health benefits.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional development and a supportive, inclusive culture.
- Why this job: Shape legal strategy and influence decision-making in a socially responsible environment.
- Qualifications: Experienced solicitor or barrister with strong litigation and management skills.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 85000 £ per year.
An excellent opportunity has arisen for a Lead Legal Counsel - Litigation to join a major purpose‑led organisation in the West Midlands. Reporting directly to the General Counsel, you'll lead the litigation and dispute resolution function, oversee complex and high‑risk matters and develop a team of lawyers and paralegals. Our client is a large, commercially focused and socially responsible housing organisation that provides affordable homes and services to communities across England. It offers the opportunity to join an award‑winning organisation with a strong social purpose, an inclusive working culture and a clear commitment to developing its people. Surplus generated by the organisation is reinvested into improving homes, services and local communities.
Description
- Acting as the senior legal lead for litigation and dispute resolution, including housing management, property litigation, contractual disputes and public law matters.
- Providing strategic advice on complex and high‑risk disputes, including litigation tactics, risk exposure and settlement strategy.
- Leading and developing the in‑house litigation team, supervising lawyers, paralegals and legal support colleagues.
- Managing external litigation advisers to ensure quality, consistency and value for money.
- Working with operational and senior leadership teams to resolve disputes early, prevent recurring issues and ensure litigation strategy reflects the organisation's values, regulatory obligations and risk appetite.
Profile
- A solicitor, barrister or legal executive with litigation practice rights, significant post‑qualification experience and a current practising certificate.
- An experienced litigation and dispute resolution lawyer with a strong record of managing complex or high‑risk cases.
- Experienced in housing management litigation, property disputes, contractual claims, public law or a comparable area of contentious work.
- Confident supervising litigation caseloads and managing, mentoring or developing legal professionals.
- Commercially minded, with a strong understanding of legal risk, governance and regulatory considerations.
- Able to explain complex legal matters clearly and influence senior non‑legal stakeholders.
- Ideally experienced within an in‑house, regulated, housing, public sector or not‑for‑profit environment.
- Experienced in delivering legal training, guidance or dispute‑prevention initiatives would be advantageous.
Job Offer
This is a genuine legal leadership opportunity offering a salary of £75,000‑£85,000, hybrid working and the opportunity to shape the litigation strategy of a major regulated organisation.
Benefits
- 27 days' annual leave, increasing with service.
- Bank holidays and an additional company holiday.
- The ability to buy or sell up to five days' annual leave.
- Employer‑matched pension contributions of up to 8%.
- Employer‑funded private medical insurance.
- Unlimited access to a 24/7 digital GP service.
- Enhanced maternity, adoption and paternity benefits.
- Flexible, part‑time and compressed working options where appropriate.
- Healthcare, dental, wellbeing and lifestyle benefits.
- A 24/7 employee assistance programme, including access to therapy sessions.
- Paid volunteering time and ongoing professional development.
This is more than a traditional litigation position. You'll have the opportunity to lead a team, influence senior decision‑making and help the organisation take a more strategic and preventative approach to legal disputes. If you're an experienced Legal Counsel — Litigation, apply now or contact Michael Bailey for more information.
Desired Skills and Experience
- Lead Legal Counsel, Litigation Lawyer, In‑House Counsel
- Dispute Resolution, Property Litigation, Housing Litigation
- Contractual Disputes, Public Law, Legal Risk
- Settlement Strategy, Regulatory Compliance, Legal Leadership
- Stakeholder Management, Social Housing
Lead In-House Counsel - Litigation in Coventry employer: Michael Page
Join a purpose-led organisation in the West Midlands that prioritises social responsibility and community impact. As a Lead Legal Counsel - Litigation, you'll benefit from an inclusive work culture, extensive professional development opportunities, and a commitment to employee wellbeing, including generous leave policies and flexible working arrangements. This role not only allows you to lead a dynamic team but also to shape the litigation strategy of an award-winning organisation dedicated to improving lives through affordable housing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead In-House Counsel - Litigation in Coventry
✨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.
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We think you need these skills to ace Lead In-House Counsel - Litigation in Coventry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Michael Page, 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 and the specific role of Lead In-House Counsel - Litigation. 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’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Michael Page
✨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.
✨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.
