At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex legal negotiations and shape strategic frameworks for a pioneering quantum tech company.
- Company: Join Riverlane, the world leader in quantum error correction technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, annual bonus, private medical insurance, and equity options.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced, innovative environment while shaping the future of quantum computing.
- Qualifications: 6+ years as a solicitor with expertise in commercial contracts and strategic legal projects.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Cambridge, UK | Full-time | Permanent | Hybrid About us Riverlane’smission is to master quantum error correction (QEC) and unlock a new age of human progress.
From advances in material and climate science, to complex chemistry simulation for new drug design, quantum computers will help humanity solve some of its most important challenges.
But without QEC, the industry’s defining technical challenge, such breakthroughs can never be achieved.
Riverlane is the world leader in QEC technology.
QEC is a complex problem that requires a range of skills, talentand passion.
Having raised more than $125M in funding to date to accelerate our cutting-edge R&D in quantum error correction (QEC), Riverlane partners with many of the world’s leading quantum hardware providers and government agencies to make fault-tolerant quantum computing a reality.
We’re making remarkable progress and growing fast.
About the role We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced, commercially minded lawyer to take on a senior, strategic role in our legal function.
We're looking for a self-starter who is confident leading on complex high value matters and able to shape the legal frameworks that support our continued growth, whilst operating as part of a close-knit team.
As Senior Legal Counsel, you will act as a trusted advisor to the General Counsel and senior leadership, owning significant transactions, managing high-risk legal issues, and driving strategic legal projects across the business.
You’ll work directly with senior stakeholders in R&D, Operations, Commercial, and HR, helping to balance legal risk with commercial opportunity in a fast-moving, science-led environment.
You will also play a key role in building the future of our legal operations – designing scalable processes, developing risk frameworks, and introducing tools and training that empower teams to handle day-to-day matters more efficiently.
The role will suit a confident and pragmatic solicitor with significant experience in commercial contracts and cross-functional advisory work, who thrives working in a team and is comfortable making judgement calls at speed.
You’ll combine excellent legal knowledge and technical skills with strong business acumen and have the credibility to influence decision-making at the highest levels.
What you will do Lead negotiation and risk allocation on complex, high-value commercial agreements, including strategic partnerships, Government funded projects, IP licensing, and enterprise-level customer/supplier contracts.
Devise bespoke arrangements tailored to the evolving quantum ecosystem, utilising your knowledge of black letter law to draft contracts and templates from scratch where required.
Develop the business’s legal risk & prioritisation framework.
Design the legal intake & self-serve model, including strategic oversight of template suites and contract automation tools, to reduce dependency on General Counsel.
Monitor legal and regulatory trends, translating them into actionable strategies for the business.
Devise and deliver internal training programs to upskill the business and to manage legal and regulatory risks.
Lead complex, strategic cross-functional initiatives with internal R&D, Operations, Commercial, and HR teams.
Lead high-impact legal and operational projects aligned with business growth and risk appetite.
Own complex, high-value transactions end-to-end, negotiating directly with senior counterparts.
Lead compliance initiatives, for example data, export control & AI governance projects.
What we need6+ years’ post-qualification experience (PQE) as a solicitor (England & Wales or equivalent), with significant experience in-house.
A proven track record of leading high-value, complex commercial transactions and strategic legal projects from inception to completion.
Deep expertise in commercial contract law.
Strong business acumen, with the ability to balance legal risk against commercial objectives and influence decision-making at senior levels.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the capability to present to and advise senior-level stakeholders.
Demonstrated leadership and mentoring skills, including uplifting capability in junior legal team members and non-legal colleagues.
Highly organised and self-sufficient, with the ability to prioritise effectively in a fast-paced, scaling environment without close supervision.
The ability to act as a trusted advisor, with the confidence to build relationships with executives, regulators, and external counsel.
A proactive and solutions-oriented approach, with a track record of driving process improvements and legal innovation.
You have worked in a science, technology, or research-led organisation.
You’ve supported internal compliance or training initiatives.
You’re familiar with legal processes and issues in R&D-heavy or IP-sensitive environments.
What can you expect from us A comprehensive benefits package that includesan annual bonus plan, private medical insurance, life insurance, and acontributory pension scheme Equity, so that our team can share in the long-term success of Riverlane28 days annual leave, plus
Senior Legal Counsel in London employer: Riverlane
Riverlane is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead pioneering research in quantum computing within the vibrant academic and tech hub of Cambridge. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and inclusivity, employees benefit from a comprehensive package that includes bonuses and equity, alongside ample opportunities for professional growth and development in a cutting-edge field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal Counsel 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 Riverlane, 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 Senior Legal Counsel in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Riverlane, 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 Riverlane and the specific role of Senior 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 Riverlane’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Riverlane
✨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 Riverlane.
✨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 Riverlane.
