Legal Counsel (2-4 PQE)
Manchester (Hybrid Working)
Private Equity-Backed | International Growth | First In-House Move
An ambitious, private equity-backed international group is seeking a talented 2-4 PQE corporate solicitor to join its growing legal function in Manchester.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a corporate lawyer in private practice looking to make a first move in‑house into a broad, high‑impact role with real autonomy, exposure to senior stakeholders and a clear pathway for progression as the business continues its international expansion.
The Opportunity
Reporting to the General Counsel and working closely with senior leadership, you will play a key role in supporting international M&A activity and the continued professionalisation of governance and risk frameworks across the Group.
You will gain:
- Meaningful involvement in cross‑border M&A transactions
- Exposure to strategic growth initiatives in a PE-backed environment
- The opportunity to broaden into a genuinely generalist in‑house role
- Direct access to senior decision‑makers
- The chance to shape legal processes, templates and governance frameworks as the function evolves
- This is a hands‑on role suited to someone who enjoys taking ownership while having the support of an experienced GC
Key Responsibilities
- M&A & Growth
- Supporting domestic and international acquisitions
- Drafting and negotiating NDAs and engagement letters
- Managing external advisers
- Reviewing due diligence and advising on structuring and entity set‑up
- Assisting with post‑acquisition integration
- Corporate Governance & CoSec
- Supporting board and shareholder processes
- Assisting with governance documentation and compliance obligations
- Supporting corporate restructurings and financing requirements
- Commercial & Operational
- Drafting and negotiating a wide range of commercial contracts
- Advising on risk allocation, liability, indemnities and IP ownership
- Supporting technology and software procurement projects
- Advising on data protection and emerging AI considerations
- Risk & Compliance
- Maintaining and coordinating risk registers across jurisdictions
- Supporting policy development and group‑wide compliance initiatives
About You
- Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales), 2-4 years' PQE
- Strong corporate, banking or restructuring experience from a reputable firm
- Experience in M&A (cross‑border exposure advantageous)
- Commercially minded and pragmatic in your approach to risk
- Confident dealing directly with stakeholders
- Keen to step into a broader, business-facing role
This role would particularly suit a corporate associate in Manchester looking for:
- A first move in‑house without losing exposure to high-quality M&A work
- Greater ownership and visibility
- A more balanced and sustainable working environment
- Clear progression within an expanding international group
The Package
- Competitive salary and bonus
- Hybrid working (Manchester city centre base)
- Exposure to international growth strategy
- Genuine scope to develop into a senior in‑house position as the function scales
If you are a 2-4 PQE corporate lawyer ready to take the next step in your career and join a high-growth, PE-backed business where you can make a tangible impact, we would welcome a confidential discussion.
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