At a Glance
- Tasks: Draft and negotiate commercial contracts while supporting supplier and provider relationships.
- Company: Join WPA, a leading not-for-profit health insurer in Taunton.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, annual bonus, and generous benefits package.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive culture that values diverse perspectives.
- Why this job: Make a real impact as a trusted legal adviser in a collaborative team.
- Qualifications: 3-5 years PQE with strong commercial contracts experience.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Taunton, Somerset (predominantly office based)
WPA is a leading not-for-profit health insurer based in Taunton. Our Legal team is small, collaborative and highly integrated into the business, working across supplier and provider relationships, insurance products and services, strategic projects and day-to-day operational matters. This is an opportunity to join a team where Legal is viewed as a trusted business partner and where your contribution will have a direct impact on how the business operates.
The Role
We are looking for a commercially minded solicitor with around 3–5 years' post-qualification experience to join our Legal team. We would particularly welcome applications from commercial solicitors looking to make their first move in-house, as well as candidates already working in-house seeking broader responsibility and business exposure.
The role will focus primarily on supporting WPA's relationships with third-party suppliers, healthcare providers and business customers, including negotiating, drafting and advising on a wide range of commercial contracts. You will also work closely with the Senior Legal Counsel in supporting the delivery of WPA's insurance products and services, providing legal advice across the customer journey from individual consumers through to SME and corporate clients.
Because we are a small team, this is a broad in-house role covering commercial contracts, customer-facing documentation, operational legal advice and business projects. You will be expected to take ownership of matters from instruction through to completion and work closely with stakeholders across the business.
Key Responsibilities
- Draft, review and negotiate commercial contracts.
- Support WPA's supplier and provider relationships.
- Take day-to-day responsibility for the legal aspects of WPA's third-party risk management process.
- Act as a trusted adviser to business teams on legal and commercial issues.
- Advise on legal issues arising from relationships with individual customers, SME clients and corporate policyholders.
- Support the development and review of policy documentation, customer communications and contractual terms.
- Support strategic business initiatives, projects and new product developments.
- Support Senior Legal Counsel across a broad range of in-house legal matters.
About You
You will be a qualified solicitor with approximately 3–5 years' PQE, although we will consider candidates with different levels of experience who can demonstrate the skills and attributes we are looking for.
- Strong experience drafting, reviewing and negotiating commercial contracts.
- Experience gained in private practice, in-house, or a combination of both.
- The ability to take ownership of matters from instruction through to completion with limited supervision.
- Strong legal and commercial judgement, with the ability to identify key risks and provide practical, commercially focused advice.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- The ability to build effective relationships across the business.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- A collaborative approach and enjoyment of working as part of a small team.
We are looking for a lawyer who is curious, commercially minded and enjoys understanding how a business operates. You will be comfortable working across a broad range of legal issues and providing practical recommendations rather than purely technical legal analysis. Strong commercial contracts experience is essential. Experience in supplier and procurement arrangements, healthcare, insurance, financial services or data protection would be advantageous, but is not essential.
Why Join WPA
- Competitive salary
- Annual bonus
- Pension scheme
- Private medical cover
- Life assurance
- Generous benefits package
- Ongoing training and professional development
- Regular social events and team activities
Our Culture
WPA is a not-for-profit organisation committed to treating others as we would wish to be treated ourselves. We believe different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives make us stronger and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where people can thrive.
Closing date: This remains flexible subject to us finding the right candidate, we therefore recommend that you apply at your earliest convenience.
In-house Legal Counsel (3-5 PQE) in Bath employer: WPA Health Insurance
WPA is an exceptional employer located in Taunton, offering a collaborative and inclusive work culture where the Legal team plays a vital role as trusted business partners. With a competitive salary, generous benefits package, and a commitment to ongoing professional development, employees are empowered to take ownership of their work while enjoying a supportive environment that values diverse perspectives. Joining WPA means being part of a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to making a positive impact in the health insurance sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land In-house Legal Counsel (3-5 PQE) in Bath
✨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.
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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.
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We think you need these skills to ace In-house Legal Counsel (3-5 PQE) in Bath
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at WPA Health Insurance, 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 WPA Health Insurance and the specific role of In-house Legal Counsel (3-5 PQE). 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 WPA Health Insurance’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at WPA Health Insurance
✨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 WPA Health Insurance.
✨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 WPA Health Insurance.
