Corporate Counsel (Maternity Cover) – 12 Month Contract, London
The company
Our client is a fast-growing, US-headquartered brand accelerator that acquires and scales digital-first consumer brands across categories including pet care, personal care, home care and lifestyle. Since 2020 it has built a sizeable portfolio through an active M&A programme, backed by its own proprietary operating and technology platform. The London office sits alongside teams in the US, Germany and Asia.
The role
This is a 12-month fixed-term contract covering maternity leave, working closely with the General Counsel. The role sits at the centre of the company's acquisition activity, with broader in-house responsibilities across commercial, employment, IP and data privacy matters.
What you'll do
- Lead the drafting and negotiation of acquisition documents as the company continues to fold new e-commerce brands into its portfolio, from LOI through diligence to completion.
- Support the General Counsel on corporate finance matters, including equity and debt.
- Draft, review and negotiate a wide range of commercial agreements: warehousing, marketing, IT, licensing, supply, confidentiality and data-related contracts among them.
- Act as a genuine business partner, spotting legal and compliance issues early and giving advice that's grounded in commercial reality.
- Manage outside counsel on IP and data privacy matters, and develop the company's contract templates and internal processes.
What we're looking for
- Qualified solicitor (England & Wales or another common law jurisdiction), with experience in M&A execution and commercial drafting.
- A mix of law firm and in-house experience is ideal; comfortable operating independently in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
- Employment law exposure and start-up or VC-backed experience are a plus, though not essential.
- German language skills would be a bonus
- Strong judgement, ownership and the communication skills to work across a busy, cross-functional team.
Interested, or know someone who'd be a strong fit? Get in touch confidentially.