Legal Counsel

Legal Counsel

Full-Time 75000 - 75000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Draft and negotiate commercial contracts while providing legal advice across the organisation.
  • Company: Join Oxford International Education Group, a leader in international education.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary up to £75,000, with opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Collaborative culture with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
  • Why this job: Make an impact in a dynamic environment focused on international operations and partnerships.
  • Qualifications: Qualified lawyer with experience in commercial contracts and strong analytical skills.

The predicted salary is between 75000 - 75000 £ per year.

About Oxford International Education Group

The Legal Counsel will support the Head of Legal and Compliance in providing practical, commercially focused legal advice across the organisation’s UK and international operations.

The role will have a particular focus on commercial contracts and day-to-day legal matters, working with teams across the organisation to support business operations, partnerships and commercial activities.

The Legal Counsel will draft and review contracts, undertake legal research, provide first-line legal advice and support the Head of Legal and Compliance on more complex, strategic and multi-jurisdictional legal matters.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

  • Commercial Contracts
  • Draft, review and negotiate a range of commercial agreements, including: Institutional partnership agreements, agent and recruitment agreements, supplier and technology contracts, Marketing, consultancy and service agreements, lease and hire agreements and confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements
  • Manage routine contract negotiations, escalating material or complex legal issues to the Group Legal Counsel where appropriate.
  • Support the development and maintenance of standard contracts, templates, guidance and contract playbooks.
  • Assist business teams in understanding contractual obligations, risks and approval requirements.
  • Support contract lifecycle management, including renewals, variations and terminations.
  • Provide practical first-line legal advice to teams across the organisation on day-to-day legal matters.
  • Undertake legal research and analysis on matters affecting the organisation and its operations.
  • Prepare clear summaries and recommendations on legal issues for review by the Group Legal Counsel where appropriate.
  • Identify and elevate significant legal risks appropriately.
  • Partnerships and International Operations
  • Assist with legal matters arising from the organisation’s international operations.
  • Undertake research into legal requirements in relevant jurisdictions and coordinate with external counsel where local advice is required.
  • Support legal due diligence for new partnerships, projects and business opportunities.
  • Data Protection
  • Support the Compliance Manager on legal interpretation of data protection requirements where required.
  • Corporate and Governance Support
  • Assist with corporate legal matters and maintenance of appropriate corporate documentation.
  • Support the Group Legal Counsel on governance matters and corporate projects.
  • Disputes and Claims
  • Assist with the management of disputes, complaints, claims and potential litigation.
  • Undertake initial legal analysis and prepare correspondence and documentation relating to disputes.
  • Legal Operations
  • Support the development and implementation of legal processes and procedures.
  • Contribute to the development of standard legal guidance, templates and resources for business teams.
  • Assist with the delivery of legal training and awareness across the organisation.
  • Support improvements to contract management and legal workflows.

Person Specifications

  • Legal status
  • Eligibility to live and work in the UK

Qualifications

  • Qualified lawyer (UK or equivalent jurisdiction).
  • Relevant post-qualification experience, ideally within a commercial legal practice.

Experience and knowledge

  • Experience drafting, reviewing and negotiating commercial contracts.
  • Strong legal research and analytical skills.
  • Ability to identify legal risk and provide clear, practical advice.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to manage a varied workload and competing priorities.
  • Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.
  • Experience within international education, higher education, or Ed Tech sectors.
  • (Desirable)
  • Experience with partnership, agency, supplier or service agreements.
  • (Desirable)
  • Exposure to data protection and privacy matters.
  • (Desirable)
  • Experience supporting cross-border commercial arrangements or international operations.
  • (Desirable)
  • Experience working with or coordinating external legal advisers.
  • (Desirable)
  • Commercially aware and pragmatic.
  • Sound legal judgement with an understanding of when matters require escalation.
  • Proactive and able to take ownership of legal matters within their level of experience.
  • Collaborative and comfortable working with stakeholders across different functions and jurisdictions.
  • Curious and keen to develop expertise across a broad range of commercial legal matters.
  • Able to work effectively in a fast-moving and evolving international environment.

This job description is provided as a guide to the role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive description of duties and responsibilities and may be subject to periodic revision.

Oxford International is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

Recruitment checks, including checks with past employees, are undertaken in accordance with our Recruitment and Selection policy.

Oxford International is an equal opportunity employer.

Every applicant and employee has the same opportunities regardless of race, colour, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, or veteran status.

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Legal Counsel employer: Oxford International Education Group

Oxford International Education Group is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture, providing Legal Counsel with the opportunity to engage in meaningful legal work across diverse international operations. Employees benefit from professional growth through exposure to complex legal matters, comprehensive training, and a supportive environment that values innovation and teamwork. Located in the vibrant education sector, this role offers a unique chance to contribute to impactful partnerships while enjoying a competitive salary and a commitment to employee well-being.

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Contact Details:

Oxford International Education Group Recruitment Team

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.

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Leverage Your University’s Career Services

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We think you need these skills to ace Legal Counsel

Commercial Contract Drafting
Contract Negotiation
Legal Research
Analytical Skills
Risk Identification
Written Communication Skills
Verbal Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Oxford International Education Group, 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 Oxford International Education Group 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 Oxford International Education Group’s culture!

How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford International Education Group

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 Oxford International Education Group.

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 Oxford International Education Group.