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 Colchester 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 Colchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your 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 researching the company inside out. Understand their products, customer journeys, and any recent news. This will help you tailor your answers and show them you're genuinely interested in being their first dedicated Legal Counsel.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your autonomy and commercial judgment during interviews. Share examples of how you've navigated disputes or regulatory challenges in the past. This will demonstrate that you’re ready to take ownership of the legal function from day one.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform.
We think you need these skills to ace Sole Legal Counsel - (Disputes seat required) in Colchester
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 how your experience in disputes and your commercial judgment can bring value to our fast-scaling marketplace.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the Sole Legal Counsel role. We love seeing candidates who understand our business and its challenges.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid jargon and focus on your key achievements and experiences that relate to the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures it lands in the right hands!
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 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 like this.
