At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal strategies and manage disputes for a fast-growing digital marketplace.
- Company: Join an international digital marketplace as their first dedicated Legal Counsel.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and the chance to shape the legal function.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for lawyers seeking autonomy and impact in their role.
- Why this job: Be a key player in a scaling business and influence global strategy.
- Qualifications: 3-5 PQE with experience in consumer-facing disputes and digital businesses.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
SSQ is partnering with a fast-scaling, international digital marketplace to hire its first dedicated Legal Counsel. This is a rare opportunity to step into a true “first lawyer” role at a global marketplace business operating across the UK, US and EU, and to build and own the legal function from the ground up.
You’ll work directly with the executive team, advising on everything from product launches and customer journeys through to regulatory strategy, disputes and international expansion.
The role:
- Managing disputes and working closely with external counsel internationally
- Acting as a trusted advisor to the CEO and leadership team
- Owning customer terms, policies and global legal frameworks
- Navigating evolving regulation and compliance across multiple jurisdictions
What we’re looking for:
- 3-5 PQE (flexible) from a leading UK firm and/or in-house team
- Experience in a consumer-facing disputes, high-growth or digital business (e.g. marketplace, e-commerce, retail, travel)
- Strong commercial judgment and the confidence to operate autonomously
- Someone excited by breadth, ownership and working in a scaling environment
This role would suit a lawyer with disputes experience (either a training seat or team) looking to move out of private practice to a high-impact, standalone position with genuine influence on business strategy.
Sole Legal Counsel - (Disputes seat required) in Brighton employer: SSQ
Join a dynamic and innovative international digital marketplace as the Sole Legal Counsel, where you will have the unique opportunity to shape the legal function from the ground up. Our collaborative work culture fosters creativity and autonomy, allowing you to work closely with the executive team on impactful projects that drive the business forward. With a focus on employee growth and development, we offer a supportive environment that encourages professional advancement while navigating the exciting challenges of a fast-scaling organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sole Legal Counsel - (Disputes seat required) in Brighton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the legal field, especially those who have experience in disputes or digital marketplaces. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the company’s operations and challenges. Understand their product launches and customer journeys so you can showcase how your legal expertise can help them navigate disputes and compliance.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job postings; be proactive! If you see a company you’re keen on, reach out directly through our website. Express your interest and highlight how your background in disputes can add value to their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your commercial judgment during interviews. Be ready to discuss real-life scenarios where you’ve successfully managed disputes or advised on regulatory strategies. This will demonstrate your ability to operate autonomously and influence business strategy.
We think you need these skills to ace Sole Legal Counsel - (Disputes seat required) in Brighton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Role:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the Sole Legal Counsel position shine through. We want to see why you're excited about building a legal function from scratch and how your experience aligns with our fast-scaling digital marketplace.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in disputes and consumer-facing businesses. We’re looking for someone who can navigate complex regulations, so showcase any specific examples that demonstrate your expertise in this area.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key achievements stand out. This is your chance to make a strong first impression, so make every word count!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen to be part of our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at SSQ
✨Know Your Disputes Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of disputes, especially in a digital marketplace context. Be ready to discuss specific cases you've handled and how they relate to the role. This will show that you understand the challenges the company faces.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Acumen
Prepare examples that highlight your strong commercial judgment. Think about times when your legal advice directly influenced business decisions or strategy. This will demonstrate your ability to operate autonomously and add value to the executive team.
✨Understand the Regulatory Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the evolving regulations across the UK, US, and EU that could impact the business. Being able to discuss these confidently will position you as a knowledgeable candidate who can navigate compliance effectively.
✨Emphasise Your Adaptability
This role is all about scaling and ownership, so be prepared to talk about your experiences in high-growth environments. Share stories that illustrate your ability to adapt and thrive in changing circumstances, which is crucial for a standalone position.