At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal strategies and support the CEO and Board in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join a rapidly growing group in B2B and facilities management sectors.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, potential equity participation, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in an entrepreneurial setting.
- Why this job: Shape the legal function and make a real impact on strategic decisions.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with strong M&A and commercial contracts experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
SRM Recruitment is hiring on behalf of a fast-growing acquisitive group which operates across multiple B2B and facilities management sectors including catering, cleaning, security/guarding and hospitality. As part of the next phase of this company's growth and integration, they are seeking an experienced Legal Counsel to act as the senior legal advisor to the CEO and the Board. This is a broad, hands-on role which covers corporate, commercial, property and employment matters, with significant exposure to M&A activity and strategic decision making. This is an opportunity to build and shape the legal function within a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment.
Location: Cardiff
Reports: Initially standalone
Key Responsibilities
- Commercial & Contracts: Draft, review and negotiate a wide range of commercial contracts including customer agreements, supplier contracts and framework agreements (including schools, and commercial businesses). Support operating businesses with pricing structures, service level agreements and contractual risk mitigation. Develop and standardise contract templates and commercial playbooks across the Group.
- Property: Manage legal matters relating to property leases, licences, renewals and dilapidations across the Group’s portfolio. Support new site acquisitions and exits in collaboration with operations and finance.
- Employment & HR Legal Support: Provide legal guidance on employment matters, TUPE, restructures and employee relations issues. Work closely with HR to ensure policies and practices are legally compliant.
- Compliance & Risk: Establish and oversee Group legal compliance frameworks. Identify legal risks and proactively implement mitigation strategies. Manage external legal advisers efficiently and cost-effectively.
- Corporate & M&A: Lead all legal aspects of acquisitions, disposals and integrations, including due diligence, SPA negotiation and completion processes. Support post-acquisition integration from a legal and governance perspective. Advise the Board on corporate governance, regulatory obligations and risk management.
- Strategic Support: Act as trusted adviser to the CEO and Board on strategic initiatives. Contribute to Group-wide projects and operational improvements. Help embed consistent legal standards and governance across all operating companies.
Candidate Profile
Essential: Qualified solicitor (UK or equivalent). Significant post-qualification experience, ideally combining private practice and in-house roles. Strong experience in M&A and commercial contracts. Proven ability to operate in a fast-paced, acquisitive or multi-site environment. Commercially minded, pragmatic and solutions-focused. Comfortable working hands-on while also operating at Board level.
Desirable: Experience within B2B services, facilities management, hospitality or similarly operational sectors. Exposure to private equity-backed or high-growth businesses. Experience building or formalising in-house legal functions.
Personal Attributes: Confident communicator with gravitas at Board level. Highly organised with strong attention to detail. Collaborative, approachable and able to influence senior stakeholders. Comfortable with ambiguity and change. Entrepreneurial mindset with a genuine desire to help grow the business.
Package: Competitive salary plus benefits, commensurate with experience. Equity or long-term incentive participation may be available for the right candidate.
Legal Counsel in Newport employer: SRM Recruitment
Join a fast-growing and dynamic group in Cardiff, where you will play a pivotal role as Legal Counsel, shaping the legal function within an entrepreneurial environment. The company offers a collaborative work culture that values employee growth, providing opportunities for professional development and strategic involvement at the Board level. With competitive salaries and potential equity participation, this is an excellent opportunity for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the B2B and facilities management sectors.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Counsel in Newport
✨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 SRM Recruitment, 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 Legal Counsel in Newport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at SRM Recruitment, 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 SRM Recruitment 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 SRM Recruitment’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at SRM Recruitment
✨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 SRM Recruitment.
✨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 SRM Recruitment.
