At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal strategy and manage disputes for a fast-growing digital marketplace.
- Company: Join an international digital marketplace as their first dedicated Legal Counsel.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape the legal function and work closely with the executive team.
- Other info: Ideal for lawyers seeking a high-impact, standalone role with real ownership.
- Why this job: Be a key player in a scaling business and influence its global strategy.
- Qualifications: 3-5 PQE with experience in consumer-facing disputes and high-growth environments.
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 Bristol 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 growth and encourages autonomy, allowing you to work closely with the executive team on impactful projects that drive the business forward. With a focus on employee development and a commitment to navigating complex regulatory landscapes, this role offers a rewarding career path in a fast-paced environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sole Legal Counsel - (Disputes seat required) in Bristol
✨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 Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Unique Value:When writing your application, make sure to highlight what makes you stand out. We want to see your unique experiences and how they relate to the role of Sole Legal Counsel. Don’t just list your qualifications; tell us how they’ve shaped your approach to legal challenges.
Tailor Your Application:Make your application specific to our needs! Reference the job description and align your skills with the responsibilities we’ve outlined. This shows us that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position.
Be Clear and Concise:We appreciate clarity! Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use simple language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant. This helps us understand your message without getting lost in complex terms.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our company culture and values.
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 show that you're proactive and ready to navigate compliance issues from day one.
✨Emphasise Your Adaptability
This role is all about ownership and working in a scaling environment. Be prepared to share experiences where you've successfully adapted to change or taken on new responsibilities. This will illustrate your excitement for the breadth of the role and your readiness to build the legal function.
