At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic legal team focusing on M&A and commercial contracts.
- Company: Be part of a leading FTSE 100 international distribution group with a global presence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative work culture and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Ideal for those who thrive in fast-paced environments with multiple deals.
- Why this job: Make an impact in strategic transactions while working with senior management.
- Qualifications: Must be a common law qualified solicitor with 3-5 years PQE in M&A.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
SSQ is exclusively partnering with a highly acquisitive international distribution and services Group and a prominent member of the FTSE 100. It has a presence in over 30 countries offering solutions to its customers across a variety of sectors.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Our client is looking for an experienced and motivated Legal Counsel to join their dynamic in-house legal team. The core focus of the role (70%) will be on UK/international M&A matters which will involve providing advice on a wide range of strategic transactions. The role will report to the Group General Counsel in London and work closely with the Corporate Development team and senior management at a Group and local level to drive forward acquisition strategy.
Mergers & Acquisitions
- Lead and advise on global acquisitions and disposals across the full transaction lifecycle
- Advise on deal structures and review due diligence reports
- Negotiate and draft key documents, including letters of intent, purchase agreements, and shareholders’ agreements
UK General Support
- Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of commercial contracts (e.g., supply, customer, and IT agreements)
- Manage day-to-day legal queries from across the business (employment, IP, property, compliance and disputes)
- Advise the Company Secretarial and Tax Department on the legal implications of Group re-organisations and drafting/reviewing short form agreements and minutes.
Candidate Background
- Common law qualified solicitor with between 3-5 years PQE
- Strong experience in M&A, advising on cross-border transactions is highly desirable.
- Ability to work in a high-pressure, fast-moving environment with multiple ongoing deals.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Counsel - Corporate
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in M&A, especially in the sectors relevant to our client. This will not only help you understand the market better but also demonstrate your proactive approach during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the legal and corporate development fields. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet people who might provide insights or even referrals for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your experience in handling M&A transactions. Be ready to explain your role in these deals and how you navigated challenges, as this will showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s recent acquisitions and strategic goals. Understanding their business model and how the legal counsel role fits into their growth strategy will give you an edge in interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Counsel - Corporate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Legal Counsel in M&A. Highlight your relevant experience in advising on acquisitions and disposals, as well as your ability to manage multiple deals.
Tailor Your CV:Ensure your CV reflects your experience in corporate law, particularly in M&A and cross-border transactions. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in negotiating and drafting key legal documents.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for corporate law and your understanding of the company's acquisition strategy. Mention how your background aligns with their needs and express your enthusiasm for joining their legal team.
Proofread and Edit:Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. Ensure that your writing is clear and professional, as attention to detail is crucial in the legal field.
How to prepare for a job interview at SSQ
✨Showcase Your M&A Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience with mergers and acquisitions in detail. Highlight specific transactions you've worked on, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the core focus of the role.
✨Understand the Company’s Strategy
Research the company’s recent acquisitions and overall strategy. Being able to articulate how your skills align with their goals will show that you're not just interested in the role, but also invested in the company's future.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to deal structures, due diligence processes, and contract negotiations. Brush up on relevant legal principles and be ready to provide examples from your past experiences that illustrate your knowledge and problem-solving skills.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
As a Legal Counsel, you'll need to communicate complex legal concepts clearly. Practice explaining legal terms in simple language, as you may need to advise non-legal stakeholders. This will showcase your ability to work collaboratively across teams.
