Head of Legal (min 8 PQE) – High Growth & VC backed Technology Company

Posted 17 February 2024
LocationUnited Kingdom
DisciplineChief Operating Officer & Governance
Reference8937

Job Description

Our client is a dynamic and fast-growing training technology company revolutionizing the way individuals and organizations learn and develop. Backed by venture capital, they are at the forefront of innovation in the education sector, leveraging cutting-edge technology to empower learners and drive meaningful impact.

Role Overview:
As the Head of Legal, you will play a pivotal role in guiding the company through its next phase of growth and expansion. Reporting directly to the C-suite team, you will be responsible for providing strategic legal counsel, managing risk, and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations. This role offers a unique opportunity to be part of a high-growth company at the intersection of technology and education, driving forward our mission to transform the learning landscape.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Legal Strategy and Compliance: Develop and implement the company's legal strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives. Monitor and assess legal risks, providing proactive guidance to the executive team. Stay abreast of changes in relevant laws and regulations and ensure company compliance.
  • Contract Management: Oversee the negotiation, drafting, and review of a wide range of commercial agreements, including but not limited to licensing agreements, vendor contracts, and strategic partnerships. Develop standard contract templates and processes to streamline operations.
  • Corporate Governance: Manage corporate governance matters, including board meetings, corporate filings, and compliance with corporate policies and procedures. Advise on corporate structure and governance best practices to support the company's growth objectives.
  • Intellectual Property: Protect the company's intellectual property assets through trademark, copyright, and patent filings. Advise on IP strategy and enforcement actions to safeguard proprietary technology and content.
  • Employment Law and HR Support: Provide guidance on employment law matters, including employee contracts, workplace policies, and HR-related issues. Collaborate with the HR team to ensure compliance with employment laws and regulations.
  • Dispute Resolution: Manage and oversee any legal disputes or litigation matters, working closely with external counsel as necessary to resolve issues efficiently and effectively.
 
  • Due Diligence and M&A: Support due diligence efforts for strategic initiatives, including mergers, acquisitions, and fundraising activities. Assist with transactional matters and integration efforts as needed.
  • Training and Education: Develop and deliver legal training programs to internal stakeholders to enhance awareness of legal risks and compliance requirements.

Qualifications:
  • Qualified solicitor with a minimum of 8 years of experience practicing law, preferably with a combination of in-house and law firm experience.
  • Proven track record of providing strategic legal advice to senior executives in a fast-paced, high-growth technology startup environment.
  • Strong understanding of commercial contracts, corporate governance, intellectual property, and employment law.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and influence decision-making at all levels of the organization.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize effectively in a dynamic environment.