At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the legal team with contracts, research, and compliance in a fast-paced IT environment.
- Company: Join Westcoast, a leading IT distributor known for innovation and teamwork.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £30,000-£33,000, 25 days holiday, and wellness support.
- Other info: Enjoy social events and a strong sense of community at work.
- Why this job: Kickstart your legal career in a dynamic industry with growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: 12+ months paralegal experience or a law degree with a minimum 2:1.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 33000 £ per year.
At Westcoast, we take pride in distributing some of the most renowned global IT brands to resellers, retailers, and organizations across the UK and beyond. As an innovative and inclusive company, we thrive on teamwork and the diverse talents of our people. We invite you to turn your passion into a rewarding career with us!
The Job Role
We are looking for an ambitious, hands‑on, practical minded and commercially focused Paralegal to join our busy in‑house legal team covering UK and Ireland within a fast‑paced IT distribution environment. The ideal candidate will have a relevant degree or 12+ months proven experience in house working on commercial contracts. You will support the Head of Legal (who also acts as Local Compliance Officer and Company Secretary) and Senior and Junior Legal Counsel across a broad range of commercial and corporate legal matters, helping to manage risk and enable growth across our vendor, reseller, and customer relationships.
This is a full‑time role based in our main Theale office (near M4 Junction 12), with onsite parking and nearby public transport links.
Your Day-to-Day Responsibilities Will Include:
- Provide day‑to‑day legal and administrative support to the legal team.
- Assist with drafting, reviewing, and amending legal documents, including commercial contracts, and legal correspondence, using templates and precedents.
- Support contract management processes, including coordinating signatures, tracking contract status, and maintaining accurate records.
- Conduct legal research on specific topics to support the legal team, including the use of AI‑enabled legal research and document review tools.
- Support company secretarial tasks, including preparation of board minutes, maintaining statutory records, and online filings with Companies House.
- Support the Local Compliance Officer with governance and compliance initiatives by helping to maintain policies, procedures, and internal guidance materials.
- Provide administrative and legal assistance on wider corporate and strategic initiatives, as directed by the Head of Legal.
Is this the role for you?
To be successful in this role you will have some of the following skills and experience and the desire to develop in other areas:
- Either a minimum of 12 months’ experience as a paralegal in either contract law, commercial work or corporate or completed your law degree, obtaining a minimum of a 2:1.
- A strong communicator, both verbal and written, a flexible team player and willing to turn your hand to other duties, as the need arises as it is a small team.
- Able to work effectively across all levels of the organization with a collaborative positive attitude.
- Proficient in Word and Excel.
- Fast moving and ahead of the curve in relation to developments such as AI.
- Strong organizational skills, ability to prioritize and attention to detail.
What’s in It for You?
This is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the IT industry, build lasting relationships, and grow with a Sunday Times Top Track 100 company.
Growth Opportunities: We offer training and development opportunities to help you reach your full potential. Whether it’s funded apprenticeships, work‑based studies, or professional qualifications, we’ve got you covered.
Generous Benefits Package: A starting salary range of £30,000‑£33,000 depending on experience. Enjoy 25 days of holiday, employee referral bonuses, perks and discounts. (Theale only – New fully equipped gym available 24/7).
Wellbeing Support: Access to Westcoast Wellbeing services including mental health counselling, virtual GP services, physiotherapy, life insurance, eye care schemes, and more.
Community & Connection: Our teams enjoy social and charitable events throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of belonging.
What’s Next?
If you’re ready to join a company that values its people and rewards success, click apply to start the quick application process (5‑6 mins). Please note: Due to the high volume of applications, we may not be able to provide individual feedback for every candidate. If you don’t hear from us within 14 working days, kindly note that we have chosen to pursue other candidates for this opportunity. We appreciate your interest and encourage you to explore future opportunities with us.
Paralegal in Reading employer: Westcoast Ltd
At Westcoast, we pride ourselves on being an innovative and inclusive employer that values teamwork and the diverse talents of our people. Located in Theale, our full-time Paralegal role offers a fantastic opportunity to grow within the fast-paced IT distribution industry, supported by a generous benefits package, training and development opportunities, and a strong sense of community through social and charitable events. Join us to turn your passion into a rewarding career while enjoying a supportive work culture and excellent employee wellbeing services.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Paralegal in Reading
✨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 Westcoast Ltd, 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 Paralegal in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Westcoast Ltd, 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 Westcoast Ltd and the specific role of Paralegal. 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 Westcoast Ltd’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Westcoast Ltd
✨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 Westcoast Ltd.
✨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 Westcoast Ltd.
