About The Role

Addison Lee is seeking a proactive and commercially minded Legal Counsel to join our in-house legal team. This newly created role will focus heavily on drafting, reviewing and negotiating commercial contracts, while also working across other areas such as employment, litigation, data protection and more, according to business requirements. The successful candidate should have 1‑2 years PQE, though those with greater or less experience are encouraged to apply if they have relevant experience.

Salary

£60k – £70k, subject to experience.

Location

This role is based at our head office in Paddington on a hybrid basis, with employees working four days a week from the office. The office is located by the picturesque Paddington Basin, just a 5‑minute walk from Paddington Station.

Reporting Lines

Reports to the General Counsel.

Main Accountabilities

• Draft, review and negotiate commercial agreements, including customer, supplier, partnership agreements and NDAs, aligning them with business objectives while mitigating risk.
• Draft and manage terms and conditions of business (B2B and B2C) and related documentation.
• Represent legal positions alongside the commercial team in client meetings and calls.
• Maintain and improve contract templates and clauses and manage internal processes to prioritise legal resource across business contract requirements.
• Advise on data protection, regulatory and compliance matters in connection with commercial contracts.
• Assist the marketing team with competitions and promotions including drafting terms and conditions.
• Work with the Trainee Solicitor to manage company books and ensure timely filings.
• Respond to ad‑hoc queries from the customer services team.
• Collaborate with the Trainee Solicitor and external lawyers to manage and advise on the company’s patent and trademark portfolio.
• Operate effectively in a fast‑paced environment, managing time and expectations.
• Keep up‑to‑date knowledge of the law in areas of special interest to the company.
• Maintain client‑facing diplomacy and excellent communication skills.
• Explain complex legal areas in simple terms without legal jargon.

Qualifications

• Experience in drafting and negotiating commercial contracts is essential; the candidate must be self‑sufficient.
• A qualified solicitor in England and Wales with a genuine passion for in‑house work.
• Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and desire to learn and develop legal understanding.
• Sound academic background (Law degree or equivalent, preferably from a respected university).
• Confident and professional communication across different business functions and leadership levels.
• Ability to work well under pressure, handle multiple projects, and meet deadlines.
• Discretion is essential when dealing with confidential and sensitive information.

Benefits

In addition to a salary of up to £70,000, employees receive: up to 10% bonus, life insurance (Death in Service), two days paid volunteering leave per year, private and travel insurance (after 1 year), wellness programme, cycle‑to‑work scheme, 33 days annual leave (including bank holidays), extensive retail discounts via Reward Gateway, support with professional training and qualifications (including apprenticeships), season ticket loans, and discounted cabs and courier services within London.

Equality and Diversity Information

Addison Lee is an equal‑opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all segments of the community. Addison Lee is a Disability Confident employer and is committed to employing, keeping and developing disabled staff.