Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal strategy and compliance for a global gaming company.
- Company: Join Side, a fast-growing video game development powerhouse with a global presence.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, professional growth opportunities, and a flexible work culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a pivotal role shaping the future of a dynamic industry.
- Qualifications: UK-qualified solicitor with 10+ years in-house experience required.
- Other info: Work onsite in London at least 3 days a week.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
General Counsel – London, United Kingdom Join to apply for the General Counsel – London, United Kingdom role at Side General Counsel – London, United Kingdom Join to apply for the General Counsel – London, United Kingdom role at Side Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features. Description GENERAL COUNSEL @ Side Location: London, United Kingdom Department: Side Corporate Reports to: Chief Corporate Development Officer Job Type: Full-Time Side is incredibly excited to create a new senior-level role based in London at our global headquarters – General Counsel. Historically speaking, Side’s legal team has been predominantly US-based, so this new hire marks a significant change for the company in both structure and strategy. The General Counsel will be a key member of the Global Leadership Team, responsible for overseeing all legal and most compliance matters across the business. The right candidate will initially act as a senior independent contributor, providing strategic input and guidance on contracts, IP issues, data protection, employment, risk management, and corporate governance. Side expects the role holder to be comfortable taking a hands-on approach, not simply outsourcing issues to our country-specific external counsels. The business needs someone with a proactive attitude, who is willing to roll up their sleeves and get the job done. This is a highly visible and impactful role at a pivotal stage of the company’s growth. Key Responsibilities Serve as the principal legal advisor to the CEO, C-Suite, and senior operational leaders across the business. Draft, negotiate, and review complex client, vendor, and licensing agreements. Ensure risk-balanced contracting across all business units and territories. Oversee intellectual property strategy, protection, and licensing. Manage legal risk related to content ownership, co-development, and client IP. Ensure global compliance with data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA). Oversee ethics, whistleblowing, anti-bribery, and, with the CFO, corporate governance policies. With the CFO consider appropriate developments in the group corporate structure and legal compliance. Support Regional Vice Presidents and Regional HR Directors on global employment issues, contractor frameworks, and policy implementation. Navigate complex employment environments across multiple jurisdictions. Work with the Chief Corporate Development Officer advising on international expansion, entity structuring, and cross-border transactions. Support the Chief Corporate Development Officer with M&A activity, joint ventures, and strategic partnerships. Support the Chief Communications Officer with legal guidance on external-facing messaging, such as press releases and investor relations materials. In time, the expectation is that this position will build and manage a lean, scalable legal function, taking advantage of external counsel relationships where needed or required. Work as part of the core team managing the proposed IPO. Who You Are Strategic thinker with the ability to operate at both high-level and detailed execution. Excellent communicator, comfortable influencing senior stakeholders. Flexible working hours required. As a global company, occasional early morning or late evening meetings may be necessary to collaborate with international teams and clients across time zones. Proactive and pragmatic, with strong problem-solving skills. Comfortable in a dynamic, international, and entrepreneurial environment. A sharp intellect with a curiosity to understand the business and its commercial drivers. Strong management and leadership skills, willing to both roll up your sleeves and be a thoughtful, company-wide partner. Desire to be an integral part of building something world-class. Requirements UK-qualified solicitor with 10+ years PQE; in-house experience essential (preferably in media, tech, or gaming). Strong experience in commercial contracts, IP, data protection, and corporate law. Confident working with leadership teams and external stakeholders. A pragmatic, business-enabling lawyer who balances legal risk with commercial reality. Experience with high-growth and public companies is a plus. Experience with a UK IPO process on AIM is a plus. Benefits WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU: This role offers a competitive package commensurate with experience. The right candidate will be in an excellent position for professional development and growth within the organisation, with clear pathways toward increased responsibilities and leadership roles over time. The opportunity to shape the legal function of a multi-national gaming company from the ground up. Be part of a fast-growing, innovative company with a strong mission and clear direction. Collaborative and flexible work culture. The postholder is expected to work onsite at the London studio for a minimum of 3 days per week. ABOUT Side Side is a global video game development and services provider, offering technical and creative solutions to many of the largest developers and studios around the world. Founded in 2009, Side has grown from their Japanese roots to become a global force in the video games industry, with 20 studios in 14 countries across North America, Europe, South America, and Asia. Their industry-leading services include art production, game development, audio production, quality assurance, localsation, localisation QA, player support, community management, and datasets. For more information, visit www.side.inc. Seniority level Seniority level Executive Employment type Employment type Full-time Job function Job function Legal Industries Computer Games Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Side by 2x Get notified about new General Counsel jobs in London, England, United Kingdom . Corporate Legal Counsel – Assistant Vice President London, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago Corporate Legal Counsel – Assistant Vice President London, England, United Kingdom 2 months ago Vice President, Regional General Counsel, EMEA London, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago London, England, United Kingdom 4 days ago London, England, United Kingdom 1 week ago London, England, United Kingdom 1 month ago London, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago Legal, Global Markets, Digital Assets, Associate/Vice President, London London, England, United Kingdom 4 days ago Corporate Counsel, Network Connectivity, AWS Legal Infrastructure London, England, United Kingdom 1 week ago London, England, United Kingdom 2 months ago EVP, Head of International Legal Services (Hybrid) London, England, United Kingdom 3 days ago Head of Commercial Legal – Fintech -(M&F) UK869862 Great role for an experienced FMCG Senior Legal Counsel/HoL with strong M&A/Commercial looking for a step up – London (Hybrid) Senior Legal Counsel, Global Investment Management Firm London, England, United Kingdom 1 week ago Payments Senior Legal Counsel – Assistant Vice President London, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago Hatfield, England, United Kingdom 6 days ago Senior Legal Counsel (In-House) – Credit Risk & Political Risk (Insurance firm) Corporate and Investment Bank – Legal –Derivatives Lawyer – Vice President London, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago Head of Legal- Employment and Immigration Hatfield, England, United Kingdom 3 weeks ago Greater London, England, United Kingdom 2 months ago London, England, United Kingdom 4 days ago Chief Compliance Officer – Corpay Cross-Border Division London, England, United Kingdom 2 days ago Director of Legal and Regulatory Affairs (Permanent) London, England, United Kingdom 1 week ago Head of Regulatory – Director Level – London London, England, United Kingdom 1 hour ago Senior Legal Counsel | Infrastructure Investments – Global Asset Management (5PQE+) U.K./European Regulatory Affairs Director London, England, United Kingdom 6 days ago We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI. #J-18808-Ljbffr
General Counsel - London, United Kingdom employer: Side
Contact Detail:
Side Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land General Counsel - London, United Kingdom
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the gaming and tech industries, especially those who have experience in legal roles. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn more about the specific challenges they face.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in data protection and intellectual property law, particularly as they relate to the gaming sector. This knowledge will not only help you stand out but also demonstrate your proactive approach to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with high-growth companies and any involvement you've had in IPO processes. Highlighting relevant examples will show your understanding of the unique legal needs of a rapidly expanding business like Side.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to showcase your leadership skills and ability to influence senior stakeholders. Think of specific instances where you've successfully navigated complex legal issues while balancing commercial realities, as this is crucial for the General Counsel role.
We think you need these skills to ace General Counsel - London, United Kingdom
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in corporate law, IP, and data protection. Emphasise your in-house experience and any specific achievements that align with the responsibilities of the General Counsel role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your understanding of Side's business and the gaming industry. Discuss how your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills can contribute to their growth and legal function.
Showcase Leadership Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've influenced senior stakeholders and led legal initiatives. This is crucial for a role that requires collaboration with C-suite executives.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your qualifications, including your UK solicitor status and years of PQE. Mention any experience with high-growth companies or IPO processes, as these are particularly relevant to the position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Side
✨Understand the Company Culture
Before your interview, take some time to research Side's company culture and values. This will help you align your answers with what they are looking for in a candidate, showing that you are a good fit for their team.
✨Prepare for Legal Scenarios
Given the nature of the General Counsel role, be ready to discuss specific legal scenarios you have encountered in your previous roles. Prepare examples that highlight your problem-solving skills and how you navigated complex legal issues.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
As a strategic thinker, you should be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to the company's growth. Think about how your legal expertise can support business objectives and be ready to share your insights during the interview.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, make sure to ask thoughtful questions about the company's future plans, especially regarding international expansion and compliance. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company aligns with your career goals.
