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 Leeds 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 Leeds
✨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 Leeds
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 personality and how your experience aligns with the role. Don’t just list your qualifications; tell us how they’ll help you thrive in this first lawyer position.
Tailor Your Application:Take the time to customise your application for this specific role. Mention your experience with disputes and how it relates to our fast-scaling digital marketplace. We love seeing candidates who understand our business and can connect their skills to our needs.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and long-winded explanations. Make it easy for us to see why you’re the right fit for the role without having to sift through unnecessary details.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at SSQ
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the legal aspects relevant to a digital marketplace. Brush up on your knowledge of consumer law, disputes management, and international regulations. This will not only show your expertise but also your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your experience in managing disputes and working with external counsel. Be ready to discuss how you've navigated complex legal challenges in high-growth environments, as this will resonate with the company's needs.
✨Understand the Business
Research the company’s operations, products, and market position. Understanding their customer journey and regulatory landscape will help you tailor your advice and demonstrate that you can be a strategic partner to the executive team.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your interest in the role and the company’s future. Inquire about their current legal challenges or how they envision the legal function evolving as they scale. This shows you’re not just looking for a job, but are genuinely invested in their success.
