At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop the legal function, focusing on commercial contracts and data privacy.
- Company: Fast-growing tech start-up in London with a dynamic culture.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape the legal function and work closely with senior stakeholders.
- Other info: Ideal for those wanting to build a modern legal function from the ground up.
- Why this job: Join a pioneering team and make a real impact in a high-growth environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with 6+ years' experience and strong commercial contracts background.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
W&P Partners Legal Recruitment is proud to partner exclusively with a fast-growing technology start-up on the appointment of a Head of Legal to lead and develop its expanding in-house Legal & Compliance function in London. This is a newly created leadership opportunity within an innovative technology business, offering significant scope to shape the legal function, establish scalable processes and playbooks, and work closely with senior stakeholders across the organisation. The successful candidate will combine strong commercial legal expertise with strategic leadership, legal operations and technology-focused responsibilities, playing a key role in supporting the company's continued growth.
The Role
Reporting directly to the General Counsel, the Head of Legal will take broad responsibility for the day-to-day leadership and development of the legal function, acting as a trusted legal partner to the commercial, revenue, retention and technology teams. The role will have a strong focus on commercial contracts, UK GDPR and data privacy, alongside responsibility for contract management infrastructure, legal technology, AI governance and wider legal operations. You will lead and develop an existing team of legal specialists, while also taking ownership of the legal function's processes, systems, resources and ways of working. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Senior Legal Counsel, Legal Director or Commercial Technology Lawyer who is ready to take on a broader leadership position within a high-growth technology environment. As a newly created role, there is significant scope to build, improve and professionalise the legal function as the business continues to scale.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop the Legal function, providing strategic direction and day-to-day leadership to the existing legal team
- Own the commercial contracts function end-to-end, including new business agreements, renewals and amendments
- Draft, review and negotiate a broad range of commercial and technology agreements
- Act as a senior legal partner to revenue, commercial, retention and technology teams
- Provide commercially focused legal advice to the leadership team and senior stakeholders
- Lead on UK GDPR and data privacy matters, including DPAs, DPIAs and data subject rights
- Oversee and improve the company's contract management infrastructure, systems and processes
- Develop scalable legal playbooks, templates, policies and processes to improve efficiency and consistency
- Lead the responsible adoption and deployment of AI across the legal function
- Work closely with Compliance and Information Security teams on wider legal, regulatory and risk matters
- Provide support on employment and HR-related legal matters where required
- Develop self-service legal resources to enable the wider business to manage routine legal matters more efficiently
- Own legal technology, tooling and budget requirements
- Identify opportunities to improve the effectiveness, efficiency and scalability of the legal function
- Establish clear legal risk frameworks and ensure appropriate escalation of material issues
- Build strong relationships with senior stakeholders across the business and position Legal as a commercial enabler
- Support the General Counsel on strategic and wider corporate legal matters as the business evolves
Qualifications & Experience
- Qualified solicitor/lawyer with 6+ years' PQE or equivalent experience
- Significant in-house and/or commercial legal experience, ideally with previous leadership responsibility
- Strong commercial contracts experience, preferably within a technology, SaaS or other high-growth business
- Extensive experience advising on technology, software and SaaS agreements
- Strong knowledge of UK GDPR and data protection
- Previous experience leading, managing or developing a legal team
- Experience building or improving legal processes, infrastructure and operating models
- Comfortable using legal technology, CLM systems and AI-assisted drafting tools
- Strong commercial judgement and the ability to balance legal risk with business objectives
- Excellent communication, influencing and stakeholder management skills
- High emotional intelligence and the ability to build credibility and trust across legal and non-legal teams
- Comfortable operating in a fast-paced environment where processes and infrastructure are still being developed
- A strategic and hands-on approach, with the ability to move between high-level leadership and detailed legal work when required
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to prioritise a broad and varied workload
Experience within a fast-growing SaaS or technology business would be highly advantageous, as would exposure to employment law, compliance, AI governance, information security or regulated technology environments. This is a particularly attractive opportunity for someone who wants to build and lead a modern legal function, rather than simply manage an established team and existing processes.
W&P Partners Legal Recruitment is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
Head of Legal employer: W&P Partners Recruitment
As a Business Development Manager at our company, you will thrive in a dynamic and supportive work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation. We offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and ample opportunities for professional growth, all within a vibrant location that fosters creativity and networking. Join us to make a meaningful impact while advancing your career in a rewarding environment.
Contact Details:
W&P Partners Recruitment Recruitment Team
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 W&P Partners 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 Head of Legal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at W&P Partners 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 W&P Partners Recruitment 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 W&P Partners Recruitment’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at W&P Partners 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 W&P Partners 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 W&P Partners Recruitment.
