At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide legal guidance and support on global projects, focusing on Europe and the Middle East.
- Company: WATG, a leading destination and hospitality design firm with a global presence.
- Benefits: Employee-owned, diverse team, and opportunities for professional growth in a creative environment.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team that values community, sustainability, and innovative design.
- Qualifications: Qualified lawyer with 3-5 years of experience in commercial law and contract negotiation.
- Other info: Dynamic role with exposure to international projects and a focus on legal compliance.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
ABOUT WATG
WATG is the world’s preeminent destination and hospitality design firm. We are employee-owned, home to more than 500 professionals globally, located remotely and in our offices in Atlantic City, California, Dallas, New York, Honolulu, London, Singapore, and Shanghai. Our approach to design applies a hospitality ethos to the development of all shapes and sizes. From initial feasibility studies to finishing touches, we operate globally as an integrated, multidisciplinary practice. Along with our interior design studio, Wimberly Interiors, we specialize in hospitality, gaming + entertainment, urban + mixed-use, and high-end residential design. We were founded in Honolulu in 1945, and the spirit of the islands taught us to focus on community strength, self-reliance, and sustainability – which we still prioritize today. We passionately believe that culture and heritage are the roots that lead to long-term resilience. We stay true to our values of designing spaces that respect, protect, and enhance the natural magic of their surroundings while delivering long-term value for our clients and their communities.
ROLE
The Legal Counsel provides legal guidance and support to WATG and Wimberly Interiors across global projects and business operations, with a primary focus on Europe and the Middle East. Working as part of a lean in-house legal team, the role supports commercial contracting, risk management, and compliance activities in alignment with the firm’s business objectives.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provides legal guidance and support to project teams and business stakeholders across regions.
- Reviews, drafts, and negotiates a wide range of commercial agreements, including client professional services agreements, subconsultant agreements, vendor contracts, NDAs, and related project documentation.
- Supports projects throughout the full lifecycle, including RFP/RFQ review and contract administration inquiries.
- Identifies, assesses, and manages legal and commercial risk, escalating material issues as appropriate.
- Coordinates with local and external counsel on jurisdiction-specific legal, regulatory, and compliance matters.
- Supports compliance and regulatory matters relevant to a global professional services or technology-enabled business.
- Assists with data protection and privacy matters, including GDPR and international equivalents.
- Reviews and comments on advice provided by external legal advisers.
- Assists with the development and maintenance of contract templates, guidance notes, and internal legal processes.
- Supports internal legal training initiatives and monitors legal developments impacting the business globally.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Qualified lawyer admitted to practice in England and Wales, or admitted to another jurisdiction and registered to practice in the UK as a Registered Foreign Lawyer (or equivalent in-house capacity).
- Minimum of 3–5 years of relevant post-qualification experience.
- Experience gained in a law firm or in-house legal team within professional services, technology, or a commercial corporate environment.
- Strong experience in commercial contract drafting and negotiation.
- Working knowledge of legal risk management in a business context.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Organized with strong analytical and time management skills.
- Experience supporting global or cross-regional work preferred, including exposure to the Middle East (KSA, UAE, Qatar).
*Please include a copy of your resume to be considered for this position.
WATG is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Legal Counsel in London employer: WATG
Contact Detail:
WATG Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Counsel in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who have experience in hospitality or international law. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights and even job leads.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching WATG's projects and values. Show us that you understand our commitment to community and sustainability. Tailor your answers to reflect how your skills align with our mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since the role involves drafting and negotiating contracts, consider role-playing scenarios with a friend. This will help you feel more confident when discussing terms during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at WATG.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Counsel in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Legal Counsel role. Highlight your relevant experience in commercial contract drafting and negotiation, as well as any exposure to global projects, especially in Europe and the Middle East.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for WATG. Share your passion for hospitality design and how your legal expertise aligns with our values of community strength and sustainability.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong written and verbal communication skills are key for this role, make sure your application reflects that. Use clear, concise language and ensure there are no typos or grammatical errors.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at WATG
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you brush up on WATG's projects and values. Familiarise yourself with their approach to hospitality design and how it aligns with your legal expertise. This will show that you're genuinely interested in the company and can contribute meaningfully.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific legal scenarios related to commercial contracts or compliance issues. Think of examples from your past experience where you've successfully navigated similar challenges, and be ready to discuss them in detail.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Legal Counsel, strong communication is key. Practice articulating complex legal concepts in a clear and concise manner. During the interview, demonstrate your ability to explain legal terms in layman's language, which is crucial for working with project teams and stakeholders.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the firm's approach to risk management or how they handle compliance across different jurisdictions. This not only shows your interest but also gives you insight into their operations and culture.