Legal Counsel jobs in United Kingdom

Corporate Legal Director | Leading Firm | Bristol

The Firm:

A full-service, UK Top 50 law firm with a rich 160-year heritage, this firm boasts over 700 lawyers and legal professionals across multiple locations. Known for its exceptional services to both businesses and individuals, the firm is expanding its presence in Bristol to provide business and private client services across the region, nationally, and internationally. The firm's commitment to growth, innovation, and diversity has earned it recognition as one of the best law firms to work at, ranked 5th in RollOnFriday's 2024 survey.

The firm's Corporate team, ranked Tier 1 in the Legal 500, offers cutting-edge legal advice across a wide range of corporate transactions. The team specializes in mergers, acquisitions, disposals, private equity, and venture capital, and plays a leading role in sectors such as Energy & Infrastructure, Food & Beverage, Healthcare, and Motor.

The Role:

The firm is seeking an ambitious and driven Corporate Legal Director to join its Corporate team in Bristol. The successful candidate will play an integral role in driving the continued growth of the team and its corporate practice in the Southwest region. The position offers the opportunity to work on high-value, complex transactions with clients ranging from startups and family-owned businesses to large corporate clients and private equity houses.
As Corporate Legal Director, you will:

• Lead and manage significant corporate transactions, including buy-side and sell-side deals, reorganisations, corporate joint ventures, and more.
• Play a prominent role in business development activities, attending networking events, supporting tenders, and drafting sector-relevant articles.
• Manage client relationships, providing high-level strategic advice while ensuring the team continues to deliver exceptional service.
• Supervise and mentor junior team members, promoting a culture of learning and development within the team.
• Leverage existing relationships with the business community to foster further growth in the region.

Who You Are:

The ideal candidate will be an experienced corporate lawyer with at least 8 years PQE, ideally with private equity or venture capital experience, though sector-specific knowledge is advantageous. You will be a highly motivated individual with the ability to think both commercially and analytically, tailoring your advice to clients' needs. Strong client relationship management skills, combined with experience in business development, will be key to your success in this role.

Key Skills & Experience

• Extensive experience advising on corporate transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, and disposals.
• Specialist knowledge of private equity, venture capital, or other sector specialisms.
• Proven track record of managing transactions independently and supervising junior staff.
• Strong business development skills, with an existing network in the business community, particularly within the Southwest.
• Motivated, team-oriented, and commercially focused, with the ability to thrive under pressure and lead from the front.

Why Join This Team?

This is an exceptional opportunity to join a highly respected and growing firm. With a strong focus on diversity, inclusion, and professional development, the firm offers competitive compensation, a comprehensive benefits package, and a supportive environment where you can make a tangible impact on the firm's growth.

Benefits Include:

• Competitive salary and benefits package, including partner-specific benefits discussed during the process.
• A strong focus on well-being, mental health support, and structured career development.
• Access to a learning & development programme and support for further career progression.

Equal Opportunities:

The firm is committed to equality and diversity, ensuring all candidates are considered based on merit, regardless of background or identity. Applications are treated fairly and equally throughout the recruitment process.

What Next?

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Tom Amer at tom@jmc-legal.com or call 0117 422 0318. Alternatively, apply now for immediate consideration.