Head of Legal
Douglas Scott Legal Recruitment
London, GB
Head of Legal 18-months FTC (with the possibility of becoming perm) A well-established, family-owned business with a strong presence in the FMCG, wholesale, and retail sectors is seeking an experienced Head of Legal to oversee its legal function. This key role focuses on contracts, intellectual property (IP), data protection, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and more. It offers the opportunity to provide strategic direction and lead critical legal initiatives across various business areas. Please note, this is an office-based role requiring full-time presence 5 days a week at the office in North-West London. Key Responsibilities: Leadership of Legal Function: Take charge of the legal function across all business areas, including contracts, intellectual property, data protection, and mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Oversight of Key Operations: Oversee the legal aspects of distribution, depots, and warehouse operations, working closely with the Group COO and Warehouse COO to ensure compliance and effective risk management. M&A and Acquisitions: Provide legal support for occasional acquisitions, ensuring legal considerations align with the company s strategic objectives. Group Legal Collaboration: Work on group-wide legal matters, including those related to the pharmacy division and other strategic business initiatives. Management of External Relationships: Manage relationships with external legal advisors and outsourced property teams, optimizing resources and ensuring high-quality legal services. Candidate Profile: The ideal candidate will bring a solid background in the FMCG, wholesale, or retail sectors and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Experience with low-margin, high-volume business operations is crucial to succeed in this role. Legal Expertise: A minimum of 8 years PQE in leading legal functions and managing legal affairs, with a focus on contracts, intellectual property (IP), data protection, and mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Industry Knowledge: Previous experience in FMCG, wholesale, or retail is preferred, with a deep understanding of the unique challenges these industries face. Cultural Fit: Familiarity with South Asian business culture is beneficial, as the company places value on this alignment. Leadership Skills: Strong leadership abilities to manage a small in-house legal team and work effectively with external legal advisors. Strategic Thinker: A demonstrated ability to align legal strategies with business goals, delivering practical and commercially viable legal solutions. Experience in Fast-Paced Environments: Proven track record of working under pressure, juggling multiple priorities, and navigating complex legal matters in a rapidly changing business landscape. About the Company: Our client is one of the largest family-owned businesses in the UK, employing over 6,500 people. With a strong presence in FMCG, wholesale, and retail, the company is a well-established leader in its industry. Focused on high-volume, low-margin business models, it offers an exciting, dynamic environment for professionals who excel in fast-paced and challenging roles. Having recently expanded into new sectors, the business is positioned for continued growth and success. Please note, this is an office-based role requiring full-time presence 5 days a week at the office in North-West London. If you're an experienced legal professional looking to make a meaningful impact in a rapidly growing, family-oriented company, we invite you to apply.