At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal strategy for YouLend's US business and negotiate major partnerships.
- Company: Join a rapidly growing fintech with a supportive and diverse culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy stock options, private medical insurance, and a modern office in Central London.
- Other info: Be part of an award-winning team recognised for excellence in the legal field.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a high-growth environment with significant career opportunities.
- Qualifications: US-qualified lawyer with 6+ years of experience in corporate or fintech law.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
We’re hiring a US-qualified Senior Legal Counsel in our London HQ to lead YouLend’s rapidly scaling US business—offering a unique chance to work on a high-growth, startup-like trajectory, backed by the infrastructure and reach of a global fintech.
We’re looking for a US-qualified Senior Legal Counsel to lead and help shape legal strategy for our US business from our London HQ. This is not a narrow legal role. You’ll work across the full range of issues that come with scaling a US fintech business, from major commercial partnerships and product structuring to capital markets, governance, operations and regulatory questions. You’ll have meaningful ownership, senior stakeholder exposure and room to grow, while being supported by a global Legal team that understands the business and operates at the centre of YouLend’s strategy. You’ll be the primary legal business partner for US matters, working closely with senior stakeholders across the US business and the wider group. You’ll also have the support of an established global Legal team, with strong infrastructure, senior oversight and external counsel support where needed.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as the primary legal business partner for YouLend’s US business.
- Lead negotiations on major US partnerships with global e-commerce platforms, payment service providers and other strategic partners.
- Draft, negotiate and manage complex commercial and partnership agreements.
- Work directly with product, tech, commercial, finance and operations teams to deliver pragmatic legal advice.
- Advise on scalable US product, payments and SME financing structures.
- Advise on new product launches and the continued evolution of YouLend’s US financing offering.
- Work on strategic US matters, including capital markets, restructurings, non-performing assets, group structuring and corporate governance.
- Advise on US regulatory matters relevant to the business, including state-level regulatory considerations and bank partnership structures.
- Manage external US counsel and supervise Legal team members.
- Help build scalable legal processes, templates and playbooks for the US business as it grows.
Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
- US-qualified lawyer (NY or CA preferred).
- At least 6 years of post-qualification experience (corporate, M&A, financing, fintech or regulatory) at a top law firm.
- Strong commercial instinct and genuine interest in fintech, embedded finance and SME financing.
- Experience with complex transactions, commercial negotiations and cross-functional work.
- Able to operate in a fast-moving environment, balancing legal rigour with commercial pragmatism.
- Clear, direct communicator with strong drafting, negotiation and legal judgment.
- Comfortable advising senior stakeholders and translating complex legal issues into practical guidance.
Nice to have
- Fintech, financial services, payments, technology or other relevant in-house experience.
- US financial regulatory experience, especially in SME financing, embedded finance, payments or bank partnership structures.
- Cross-border transactional experience.
Job Benefits
- Award-winning legal team: Won "In-House Banking & Financial Services Team of the Year" at The Lawyer Awards 2024.
- Shortlisted at the British Legal Awards 2024 hosted by Law.com International for In-House Legal Team of the Year and General Counsel of the Year.
- Award-Winning Workplace: YouLend has been recognised as one of the “Best Places to Work in 2024, 2025 and 2026” by the Sunday Times for being a supportive, diverse, and rewarding workplace.
- Award-Winning Fintech: YouLend has been recognised as a “Top 250 Fintech Worldwide” company by CNBC.
We have developed powerful solutions, won some significant partnerships, and are growing at a rapid pace. But the global opportunity is still massive, and YouLend is a raw organisation where we are only just getting started.
Lots of upsides
- High-growth (>100% growth during 2022 and 2023), so clear outlook to compensation (bonus or share option appreciation) and career growth (through growth with business).
- Well-capitalised with supportive private equity backing.
- Part of Banking Circle Group with a fully licensed Luxembourg bank, which can provide a balance sheet and support European expansion in otherwise complex regulated markets.
Motivating work environment
- A high-quality team that pushes each other to succeed through direct feedback and aligned incentives.
- Strong and transparent team culture, we have each other’s backs.
- Independent work environment where results matter.
- Data-driven culture and emphasis on speed (anti-red tape).
Comprehensive benefits package
- Stock Options
- Private Medical insurance via Vitality and Dental Insurance with BUPA
- EAP with Health Assured
- Enhanced Maternity and Paternity Leave
- Modern and sophisticated office space in Central London
- Free Gym in office building in Holborn
- Subsidised Lunch via Feedr
- Deliveroo Allowance if working late in office
- Monthly in office Masseuse
- Team and Company Socials
- Football Power League and Yoga Club
At YouLend, we champion diversity and embrace equal opportunity employment practices. Our hiring, transfer, and promotion decisions are exclusively based on qualifications, merit, and business requirements, free from any discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, religion, nationality, or any other protected basis under applicable law.
Senior Legal Counsel - US employer: YouLend Limited
YouLend Limited is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant team culture, encouraging innovation and accountability in the rapidly evolving field of Data and AI. With a competitive benefits package that includes stock options and private medical insurance, employees are supported in their professional growth while contributing to impactful projects that align with business goals. Located in a dynamic environment, YouLend offers unique opportunities for career advancement and the chance to lead transformative initiatives in the tech industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal Counsel - US
✨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 YouLend Limited, 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
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Legal Counsel - US
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at YouLend Limited, 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 YouLend Limited and the specific role of Senior Legal Counsel - US. 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 YouLend Limited’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at YouLend Limited
✨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 YouLend Limited.
✨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 YouLend Limited.
