At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide senior-level legal support and advice across EMEAI operations in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Sherwin-Williams, the world's largest paint and coatings company.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive pay, private medical insurance, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with continuous training and a focus on wellbeing and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by advising on innovative projects in a fast-paced international setting.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor with strong corporate and commercial law experience.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 € per year.
Sherwin‑Williams is the world’s largest paint and coatings company, with annual revenues of approximately $24 billion. Across the EMEAI region, the business operates in both industrial and consumer markets, with a presence in numerous countries and a strong focus on innovation, operational excellence, and sustainable growth. We are now seeking a Senior Counsel to join our established regional legal team, supporting our EMEAI Industrial businesses. This is a senior, highly visible role, offering the opportunity to work closely with leadership teams across an international, fast‑paced environment. The role will be based in the Manchester area, with hybrid working available (not fully remote). Alternative locations, including Birmingham, may also be considered. Some national and international travel will be required.
As Senior Counsel, you will provide senior‑level legal support across Sherwin‑Williams’ EMEAI operations, with a primary focus on the Global Industrial / Performance Coatings Group. You will act as a trusted advisor to management teams, delivering practical, commercially focused legal advice while supporting business objectives and effective risk management. You will support the following areas:
- Global Industrial / Performance Coatings Group: Seven business units producing, selling, and distributing the Company’s industrial products.
- Global Supply Chain: Manufacturing operations, logistics, procurement, and operational support for commercial divisions.
- Functional Support: Advising key functions including Real Estate, Human Resources, Finance, R&D, and Corporate teams.
- Privacy Support: Advising on GDPR compliance and related data protection matters.
- Sustainability Support: Supporting the review of marketing collateral, particularly in relation to green claims and sustainability‑related communications.
Qualifications
- Qualified Solicitor (8–10+ years’ experience desirable, though candidates with strong relevant experience and competencies will be considered)
- Experience gained in a large law firm and/or in‑house legal department.
- Strong background in corporate, commercial, and contract law.
- Proven experience drafting and negotiating complex contracts.
- Experience in an international environment is highly desirable.
- Experience in one or more of the following areas would be advantageous: Litigation, Privacy & GDPR, Construction, Regulatory, HR & Pensions, Real Estate, IP, Sustainability, Export Compliance.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex legal issues into clear, practical advice.
- High levels of professionalism, integrity, and sound judgement.
- Adaptable and comfortable working in a changing, fast‑moving environment.
- Strong commercial awareness and ability to understand business models and financial concepts.
- Collaborative approach, able to work effectively with stakeholders at all levels, including senior leaders and external counsel.
- Strong time‑management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently.
- High proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
Our offer to you...
- Work life balance – hybrid and flexible working schedule
- Competitive compensation program
- Company bonus plan
- Private medical insurance
- Car allowance
- Company contributed pension
- Career growth opportunities in a truly international environment
- Innovation leaders in the protective coatings industry
- Sherwin Academy offers continuous training programs for all seniority levels
- Attractive wellbeing, mental health, women & inclusion and ID&E programs
Responsibilities
In this role, you will:
- Act as the primary legal advisor to management teams within the Global Industrial / Performance Coatings Group in EMEAI.
- Provide senior‑level, solution‑oriented legal advice across a wide range of matters, including:
- Commercial contracts and negotiations
- Disputes and claims management
- Employment and HR matters
- Real estate transactions and site‑related issues
- Marketing and advertising compliance
- M&A and strategic transactions
- Export controls and wider compliance matters
- Proactively support legal and business projects, helping to identify, manage, and reduce legal risk.
- Deliver training and guidance to stakeholders to enhance legal awareness and the effectiveness of in‑house legal services.
- Work collaboratively with legal and business colleagues across a matrixed international organisation.
The role will not have direct reports initially, but will require strong collaboration and influence across teams.
Senior Legal Counsel in Bolton employer: Sherwin-Williams
Sherwin-Williams is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the Manchester area with hybrid working options that promote work-life balance. Employees benefit from competitive compensation, comprehensive health insurance, and robust career growth opportunities within a globally recognised leader in the coatings industry, all while being part of a collaborative culture that values innovation and sustainability.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal Counsel in Bolton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the legal field, especially those who work at Sherwin-Williams or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just help you land that Senior Counsel role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of corporate, commercial, and contract law. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the specific needs of the Global Industrial / Performance Coatings Group. We want to see how you can add value!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your adaptability! In a fast-paced environment like Sherwin-Williams, being able to pivot and handle multiple priorities is key. Share examples from your past where you've successfully managed changing demands.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to our innovative culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Legal Counsel in Bolton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Legal Counsel role. Highlight your experience in corporate, commercial, and contract law, and don’t forget to showcase any relevant international experience. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for Sherwin-Williams. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to provide practical legal advice and support business objectives. Let us know what makes you tick!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a Senior Counsel, clear communication is key. In your application, make sure to convey complex legal concepts in a straightforward manner. This will show us that you can translate legal jargon into practical advice for our management teams.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s super easy and ensures your application goes directly to our hiring team. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect with us directly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sherwin-Williams
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your corporate, commercial, and contract law knowledge. Be ready to discuss specific cases or experiences where you've successfully navigated complex legal issues, especially in an international context.
✨Show Your Business Savvy
Understand Sherwin-Williams' business model and how the legal function supports it. Be prepared to explain how your legal advice can align with their operational goals and contribute to sustainable growth.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific legal scenarios, such as disputes or compliance issues. Think of examples from your past experience that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to provide practical, commercially focused advice.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice translating complex legal jargon into clear, understandable language. During the interview, aim to showcase your excellent communication skills by explaining legal concepts in a way that non-legal stakeholders can grasp easily.
