The role
We are looking for a motivated and skilled Associate Legal Counsel to join this dynamic function, reporting to the Head of Legal. This role involves close collaboration with Directors, Partners, senior stakeholders, and managers, across various teams and functions. It requires someone with a commercial, responsive, and pragmatic approach.
The ideal candidate will be a 3–4 years PQE lawyer who is a self-starter with strong commercial and negotiation skills, a creative mindset, and the ability to take ownership of legal matters. We value individuals who are curious, collaborative, proactive and capable of working independently, with strong problem-solving abilities and a keen eye for detail. A high level of professionalism and interpersonal skills is essential.
We’re Also Looking For Someone Who Brings
- strong commercial awareness and the ability to align legal advice with business objectives and strategy;
- a solid understanding of technology-related matters and demonstrable experience in data protection and privacy laws;
- excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts clearly to legal and non-legal stakeholders;
- sound judgment and decision-making skills;
- a commitment to delivering high-quality work;
- adaptability and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment;
- a pragmatic, solutions-oriented approach to advising on commercial contracts, with the ability to navigate evolving digital and regulatory landscapes.
Responsibilities Include
- developing, managing, and maintaining standard agreements, templates, policies, procedures and guidance;
- drafting and reviewing a wide range of contracts and agreements;
- supporting or leading third-party contract negotiations;
- advising on legal aspects of new and existing products, including third-party technologies;
- ensure compliance with applicable laws and industry standards;
- conducting analysis to inform business decisions.
A key part of the role will be identifying legal risks and proposing practical mitigation strategies aligned with the firm’s risk policies.
The ideal candidate will stay abreast of legal developments and provide clear, technical legal advice, including on client terms when required.
This role can be based in any of our regional office however, Birmingham would be preferable.
The team
The individual would be part of the Office of the Legal Counsel, a recently formed function, currently comprising the Head of Legal, a trainee and a number of outsourced providers, and looking to scale. The function plays a critical role in supporting the firm’s strategic direction, advising on legal obligations and leading on contracting, commercial services, and legal risk management. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain in-house experience within a private practice environment, working closely with senior stakeholders on high-impact initiatives.
As the firm continues to grow, the legal function is increasingly involved in shaping commercial strategy and risk frameworks. This position offers the chance to contribute to meaningful projects, influence decision-making, and develop your career in a collaborative and evolving environment.
The firm
Shoosmiths is the law firm clients choose for excellent service, incisive thinking and above all for our ability to focus on what matters. From offices across the UK and Brussels, we support some of the world’s most exciting and ambitious businesses; amazing clients making an impact. We empower our people to be their authentic selves and deliver together in supportive teams committed to excellence and innovation. The first top 50 law firm to achieve ‘Platinum Standard’ Investors in People, our values and culture are not just words on our website but are the heartbeat of the firm.
We have an outstanding benefits package to complement our competitive remuneration system. In addition to the competitive salaries, great working environment and high-quality work, we believe that all staff should be rewarded for their commitment to the continued success of the firm through a comprehensive and flexible range of benefits.
To discover more about our benefits, please visit: Benefits Package
Equal opportunities
Our approach to our people is underpinned by our approach to diversity, inclusion and well-being. Our ambition is to build a diverse and ambitious workforce that reflects all backgrounds and talents, and a workplace that is supportive and inclusive, recognises and nurtures talent, and has a strong sense of community between colleagues.
This means that everyone who either applies to or works for the firm is treated equally, whatever their gender, age, ethnic origin, nationality, marital status, disability, sexual orientation or religious beliefs.
