At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the legal function, negotiate contracts, and support strategic growth initiatives.
- Company: Dynamic international engineering firm with ambitious growth plans.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work, and opportunities for international travel.
- Other info: Join a fast-paced team embracing AI and automation for legal innovation.
- Why this job: Be hands-on in a pivotal role shaping the future of a growing business.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor with experience in legal leadership and commercial environments.
The predicted salary is between 125000 - 125000 £ per year.
If you enjoy variety, autonomy and being genuinely close to the business, then keep reading. We're partnering with an international, PE-backed engineering and project services business looking for a Head of Legal to lead the Group legal function and help support the next stage of growth. This would suit someone in a varied Head of Legal / Legal Director role looking for a new and exciting challenge. This isn't one of those roles where you spend your days hiding behind policies or sending work to external lawyers. This is a proper hands-on Head of Legal role.
You will support the Board on strategic matters one minute and be rolling up your sleeves negotiating contracts, supporting M&A activity, advising on employment matters or exploring how AI and automation can transform the legal function the next.
About This Business
This is an international, PE-backed business with ambitious growth plans and an impressive track record. Operating across Europe and beyond, they deliver complex engineering and project services across manufacturing, infrastructure, utilities and energy. The business is entrepreneurial, fast-moving and investing heavily in people, systems and technology. AI and automation are seen as opportunities, not threats. With continued investment, international expansion and a clear long-term strategy, this is a business building for the future.
The Role
This is a true Group role, but with commercial ownership of the regions. You will report directly to the Board and Group CFO whilst leading a team of five legal professionals based across Europe. The countries have their own legal capabilities and local autonomy. Your job isn't to centralise everything. It's to build the right frameworks, governance and technology so local teams can move quickly whilst operating within a clear Group structure. You will help the business navigate its next chapter, supporting growth, embracing new technologies and ensuring the Group is well positioned for whatever comes next.
What you'll be doing
You will have responsibility for:
- Leading and developing a team of legal professionals across Europe.
- Acting as the senior legal adviser to the Board and Executive Team.
- Drafting, reviewing and negotiating commercial contracts.
- Advising on framework agreements, MSAs, terms and conditions and strategic partnerships.
- Managing corporate governance and company secretarial matters.
- Supporting acquisitions, disposals and strategic investments.
- Leading legal due diligence and advising on transaction structures.
- Supporting Private Equity requirements and helping ensure the business remains exit ready.
- Advising on employment law, disputes and employee relations.
- Managing legal risk, compliance and regulatory matters.
- Advising on anti-bribery, anti-corruption and data protection.
- Managing insurance claims and external legal advisers.
- Developing AI governance policies and frameworks.
- Identifying opportunities to automate legal processes and improve workflows.
- Building scalable legal frameworks and controls across the Group.
About you
You will likely be:
- A qualified Solicitor with significant post-qualified experience.
- Currently operating as a Head of Legal, General Counsel or Senior Legal Counsel.
- Commercially minded and comfortable operating in a fast-paced environment.
- Experienced in contracts, corporate governance and legal risk.
- Familiar with M&A and Private Equity environments.
- Excited by AI, automation and technology.
- A natural leader who enjoys developing teams.
- Happy rolling your sleeves up and getting involved.
- Experience within engineering, construction, utilities, infrastructure, manufacturing, energy or other project-based businesses would be particularly attractive.
Head of Legal employer: We Do Group
Join a well-established professional services business in Guildford as a Payroll Administrator, where you'll benefit from a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With hybrid working options and hands-on training from experienced colleagues, this role offers a fantastic entry point into the finance sector, allowing you to build a rewarding career while enjoying a collaborative environment focused on learning and progression.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Legal
✨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 We Do Group, 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 Head of Legal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at We Do Group, 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 We Do Group and the specific role of Head of Legal. 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 We Do Group’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at We Do Group
✨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 We Do Group.
✨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 We Do Group.
