At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead drafting and negotiation of commercial contracts while providing practical legal guidance.
- Company: High-growth business in Blackburn with a dynamic and influential in-house legal team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and a chance to shape business outcomes.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career advancement and involvement in M&A activities.
- Why this job: Join a visible role where your legal advice directly impacts strategic projects and company success.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with experience in commercial law and contract management.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
We are currently supporting a high-growth business based in Blackburn in their search for a talented Commercial Legal Counsel. This is a genuinely influential in-house position, sitting at the heart of the organisation and working across a broad commercial remit. The successful candidate will deliver clear, practical legal guidance that helps the business navigate complex regulatory and commercial landscapes with confidence.
Day-to-day, the role centres on leading the drafting, review, and negotiation of commercial contracts, building strong relationships with internal teams to proactively manage risk and support key strategic projects. The position also encompasses collaboration with external legal advisers and hands-on involvement in corporate, regulatory, and contentious matters as they arise.
For a commercially minded lawyer looking to step into a varied and visible role where their advice genuinely shapes business outcomes, this represents a compelling next move.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead on the drafting, review, and negotiation of a broad range of commercial agreements, spanning supply, franchise, and technology arrangements.
- Deliver commercially grounded legal advice across the business, keeping stakeholders informed of their obligations and options.
- Build effective working relationships with internal teams, translating legal complexity into practical, actionable guidance.
- Assist senior colleagues on high-value strategic projects and more complex legal matters.
- Support M&A activity through commercial and corporate due diligence, and oversee contract integration or wind-down post-completion.
- Drive improvements to contract management processes, developing templates and playbooks that increase efficiency across the business.
- Play an active role in governance and compliance, including company secretarial support and the development of legal best practice frameworks.
- Assist with data protection matters, working alongside the external DPO to handle queries and maintain compliance.
- Spot and articulate legal and commercial risk clearly, offering considered and proportionate solutions.
- Keep across relevant regulatory and legislative changes, briefing the business proactively on anything that may affect operations.
- Input into wider corporate projects, new ventures, and other matters requiring legal oversight.
- Keep accurate records and contribute to internal reporting on legal activity and team workload.
The Ideal Candidate
- A qualified solicitor with solid post-qualification experience in commercial law, ideally gained in-house or in a practice with a strong transactional focus.
- A proven track record of independently handling commercial contracts from instruction through to execution.
- Exposure to corporate transactions or M&A work would be a distinct advantage.
- Confident navigating governance and compliance frameworks, with a good understanding of legal risk management in a commercial context.
Legal Counsel employer: Think Legal Recruitment
As a leading player in the real estate litigation sector, our Leeds office offers an exceptional work environment characterised by collaboration and support. We pride ourselves on providing our employees with ample growth opportunities, working alongside some of the most respected professionals in the industry while handling high-profile cases for prestigious clients. Join us to be part of a dynamic team that values innovation and excellence in a vibrant city known for its rich culture and professional development prospects.
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 Think Legal Recruitment, 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 Think Legal Recruitment, 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 Think Legal Recruitment 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 Think Legal Recruitment’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Think Legal Recruitment
✨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 Think Legal Recruitment.
✨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 Think Legal Recruitment.
