Legal Counsel, Content Legal (FTC 12 mth)

Paramount Comedy; London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job description

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 (RTS Channel of the Year 2020, Grierson Award Best Single Documentary 2020), MTV and Comedy Central (both are multiple Promax award-winning channels), Nickelodeon, BET, Paramount Network, Paramount +, Smithsonian and Pluto, CBS, Network 10, Telefe, Viacom 18 and Paramount International Networks Studios among others internationally. In addition to offering innovative streaming services and digital video products, Paramount International Networks provides powerful capabilities in production, distribution and advertising solutions for partners on five continents and across more than 180 countries.

Our goal is to be the world's leading, branded entertainment company across television, motion pictures, and digital media platforms. We are home to global brands that connect across all platforms. It starts on screens of all sizes, and it doesn't stop there. We connect with audiences in the real world through live experiences, huge events, books, toys, games, apps and so much more, giving them ways to engage be optimistic and determinate whenever and wherever they want. We are pioneers in creating innovative programming for all targets by having agility and adaptability; our portfolio includes Jersey Shore, SpongeBob SquarePants, Paw Patrol, Yellowstone, MTV EMAs, South Park, Star Trek, Mission Impossible, Transformers, Dexter and many more.

WHAT IS THE ROLE?

We are looking for an enthusiastic, collaborative content (or programme legal advice) lawyer to join the Content Legal & Compliance BALA team in London.

Responsibilities

1. Working with in-house producers and commissioners to provide programme and online content legal and regulatory advice on a broad range of issues that can include defamation, contempt, privacy, data protection, intellectual property as well as regulatory compliance within the Ofcom Broadcasting Code, advertising standards and practices.
2. Understanding editorial ambition and direction to advise effectively on both pre- and post-broadcast and online publication across multiple genres, which includes live output, journalism and news programming.
3. Analysing and balancing the risks involved in the production and publication process identifying potential consequences that may result in regulator sanctions and/or legal liabilities, both criminal and civil.
4. Collaborating with the rest of the BALA team and UK business to work within governance protocols, exercising appropriate judgment and seeking guidance and advice from others, particularly when there is a new or complex issue to address.
5. Advising on child protection and contributor duty of care, commercial references in programmes and teleshopping, sponsorship, product placement, broadcast competitions, election broadcasting and such other matters that arise from time to time.
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 including Ofcom standards or fairness and privacy complaints.
9. Reviewing, maintaining and updating policies, guidelines and protocols for the management of programmes.
10. Attending and advising at recordings, and live and as-live programmes (some travel may be required).
11. Supporting the training of internal staff and production companies on legal and compliance issues affecting programme and online content.
12. Pre- and post-litigation management including instructing counsel and external solicitors.
13. Liaising and working closely 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; supporting the preparation and updating of know-how for the team.
15. Embracing the One Paramount approach and encourage collaboration and team working.
16. Being an ambassador for all Paramount channels and platforms, internally and externally.
17. Adopting and promoting the Paramount values and support a culture of inclusion.

WHAT DO YOU NEED?

1. Qualified lawyer (barrister or solicitor) with 2-7 years PQ experience of programme legal/regulatory compliance issues as they relate to the creation and publication of content in the public service and commercial broadcasting space.
2. In-depth understanding of media law and regulation including defamation, contempt, privacy, copyright, data protection and the Ofcom Broadcasting Code and Guidance.
3. Experience of advising producers and commissioners pre- and post-broadcast on media law and regulation in relation to programmes and/or online and/or other media content.
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 in a friendly and lively environment.
6. Skilled communicator comfortable adapting your style to be effective at all levels.
7. A good listener, willing to take on all details and ask the right questions, before approaching matters in a practical and analytical way.
8. Solid attention to detail and confidence in handling strict deadlines, providing an excellent service to key stakeholders around the business.
9. Creative problem solving skills with strong and sound judgement in evaluating legal and editorial issues.
10. A willingness to learn quickly, adapt when appropriate and to apply new learnings to deliver practical solutions.
11. A passion for freedom of expression.
12. A committed and resilient team player with an ability to work effectively under pressure and to tight deadlines.

Paramount is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) including disability/vet.

At Paramount, the spirit of inclusion feeds into everything that we do, on-screen and off. From the programming and movies we create to employee benefits/programs and social impact outreach initiatives, we believe that opportunity, access, resources and rewards should be available to and for the benefit of all. Paramount is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. 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.

If you have any difficulties in applying or require access needs arising from a mobility or any other impairment please let us know by emailing [e-mail] or calling 0207 555 1234. We can then ensure your experience and visit is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.