At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal strategy and support commercial growth in a dynamic global organisation.
- Company: Mission-driven company with a strong focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Excellent package, competitive salary, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Join a people-driven culture with significant career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping legal strategies in a fast-growing environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified lawyer with 8+ years of experience in commercial contracts.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Are you a commercially minded, qualified lawyer with extensive Post Qualified Experience, looking for the challenge of taking a mission driven organisation to its next level of success? My Client is actively seeking a proactive and strategic Legal Counsel to join our Group Legal department as we continue our growth trajectory. This is a high-impact role at the centre of our UK and global business. You will act as the lead legal partner to a global organisation — working closely with senior stakeholders to shape strategy, enable innovation and support commercial growth.
This role goes beyond traditional legal support. You will be expected to anticipate risk, influence decision-making and deliver pragmatic, solution-focused advice that helps the business move forward with confidence. You’ll operate with a high degree of autonomy, embedding yourself in the business and building trusted relationships across functions. In doing so, you’ll play a key role in helping the organisation navigate an evolving legal and regulatory landscape while continuing to grow.
You will report to the Head of Legal. As our Legal Counsel you will be responsible for leading on:
- Business Partnering & Advisory • Act as a trusted legal advisor to senior stakeholders across the business • Embed yourself within commercial teams (marketing, innovation, procurement, sales) to anticipate needs and provide timely, practical advice.
- Commercial & Contracting • Lead the drafting, negotiation and execution of a wide range of commercial agreements (sales, distribution, procurement, media, digital and professional services). • Drive efficiencies in contracting processes and identify opportunities to improve templates and ways of working.
- Risk & Compliance • Proactively identify emerging legal and regulatory risks, particularly in areas impacting FMCG, marketing and sustainability. • Translate legal developments into clear, actionable guidance for the business.
- Disputes & Issue Management • Manage disputes, litigation and settlement negotiations, working with external counsel where required.
Experience • Qualified lawyer with a minimum of 8 years’ PQE. • Strong experience in commercial contracts. • In-house experience, ideally within FMCG, food or beverage, and/or experience in marketing/advertising compliance is preferred.
Skills • Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills, with the confidence to challenge constructively. • Ability to communicate complex legal concepts in a clear, practical and business-friendly way. • Collaborative and solutions-focused, with a natural ability to build trust across teams. • Curious and adaptable, with an appetite to learn new areas of law quickly.
If this sounds like the role for you please get in touch to discuss in more detail. The business is a growing global entity with a significant growth agenda, they are people driven with an outstanding culture and this would be a great time to join them. Excellent package and benefits.
Legal Counsel employer: The Oval Partnership
Join a purpose-led B-Corp accredited FMCG manufacturing business that prioritises ethical practices and sustainability, offering you the chance to shape a brand-new ESG reporting function from the ground up. With a strong focus on employee growth and autonomy, you'll have the opportunity to influence cross-functional teams and drive meaningful change within a globally renowned organisation. Experience a supportive work culture where your contributions truly matter, and be part of a team dedicated to making a positive global impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Counsel
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including The Oval Partnership, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Counsel
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at The Oval Partnership, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in The Oval Partnership and the specific role of Legal Counsel. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for The Oval Partnership’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Oval Partnership
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at The Oval Partnership.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at The Oval Partnership.
