Legal Counsel, Content Legal - FTC

Legal Counsel, Content Legal (FTC 12 mth)

Paramount International Networks, a unit of Paramount Global (NASDAQ: PARA), is comprised of many of the world's most iconic consumer brands. Its portfolio of award-winning channels, brands and platforms includes Channel 5, MTV, Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, BET, Paramount Network, Paramount +, Smithsonian and Pluto, CBS, Network 10, Telefe, Viacom 18 and Paramount International Networks Studios among others internationally.

Our goal is to be the world's leading, branded entertainment company across television, motion pictures, and digital media platforms. We connect with audiences in the real world through live experiences, huge events, books, toys, games, apps and so much more.

We are looking for an enthusiastic, collaborative content lawyer to join the Content Legal & Compliance BALA team in London.

1. Working with in-house producers and commissioners to provide programme and online content legal and regulatory advice on issues including defamation, contempt, privacy, data protection, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance within the Ofcom Broadcasting Code.
2. Understanding editorial ambition and direction to advise effectively on both pre- and post-broadcast and online publication across multiple genres.
3. Analysing and balancing risks involved in the production and publication process and identifying potential consequences that may result in regulator sanctions and/or legal liabilities.
4. Collaborating with the BALA team and UK business to work within governance protocols, exercising appropriate judgment and seeking guidance on complex issues.
5. Advising on child protection, contributor duty of care, commercial references, sponsorship, product placement, and broadcast competitions.
6. Understanding editorial ethics affecting programmes and online content.
7. Supporting reviews into programme and online content issues pre- and post-broadcast.
8. Preparing responses to complaints and regulatory investigations.
9. Reviewing, maintaining and updating policies, guidelines and protocols for the management of programmes.
10. Attending and advising at recordings, and live programmes (some travel may be required).
11. Supporting the training of internal staff and production companies on legal and compliance issues.
12. Pre- and post-litigation management including instructing counsel and external solicitors.
13. Liaising with commissioners, production companies, press, programme management, business affairs, creatives, marketing and management.
14. Keeping up to date on the evolution of the law and practice in this area.
15. Embracing the 'One Paramount' approach and encouraging collaboration and teamwork.
16. Being an ambassador for all Paramount channels and platforms.
17. Adopting and promoting the Paramount values and supporting a culture of inclusion.

1. Qualified lawyer (barrister or solicitor) with 2-7 years' PQ experience of programme legal/regulatory compliance issues.
2. In-depth understanding of media law and regulation including defamation, contempt, privacy, copyright, data protection and the Ofcom Broadcasting Code.
3. Experience of advising producers and commissioners on media law and regulation.
4. Experience of drafting/reviewing programme protocols, guidance notes, contributor contracts/releases and access agreements.
5. An approachable, professional persona with the ability to collaborate easily.
6. Skilled communicator comfortable adapting your style to be effective at all levels.
7. A good listener, willing to take on details and ask the right questions.
8. Solid attention to detail and confidence in handling strict deadlines.
9. Creative problem-solving skills with strong judgment in evaluating legal and editorial issues.
10. A willingness to learn quickly and adapt when appropriate.
11. A passion for freedom of expression.
12. A committed and resilient team player with the ability to work effectively under pressure.

Paramount is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) including disability/vet. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, and Veteran status.