We are seeking to appoint a Group Legal Counsel to join a well-established engineering group of companies based out of HQ in Eastleigh, Hampshire. Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer, this position offers a unique opportunity to provide expert legal guidance across a diverse range of matters, supporting the organisation's strategic objectives while safeguarding its legal and commercial interests. Key Duties & Responsibilities: Deliver accurate and commercially focused legal advice to colleagues at all levels, including Executive Leadership, on areas such as commercial contracts, framework agreements, regulatory compliance, and intellectual property. Draft, review, and negotiate contracts and legal documents, ensuring the organisation's exposure to risk is minimised while maximising commercial opportunities. Support bids, tenders, and framework agreements, ensuring compliance with the Utilities Contracts Regulations 2016, Public Contracts Regulations 2015, and Procurement Act 2023 (when enacted). Provide legal analysis on complex issues, advising on strategic projects, partnerships, and agreements from a legal perspective. Develop and maintain internal governance policies, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations while contributing to the enhancement of business operations. Offer practical guidance on corporate governance matters, including contributing to board meetings and drafting reports for key stakeholders. Collaborate with internal teams and external counsel to manage legal disputes, litigation, and arbitration. Stay abreast of changes in laws and regulations, proactively assessing their impact on business operations and ensuring compliance. Act as a trusted advisor, identifying opportunities to add value and provide pragmatic solutions to ad hoc legal queries. This role will suit a qualified solicitor or barrister with substantial experience in commercial or corporate law and a pragmatic approach to delivering legal solutions in a dynamic business environment. Skills & Experience Required: Qualified solicitor or barrister in England and Wales. Proven experience in commercial and/or corporate law, ideally at Senior Associate level or equivalent, within a top-tier law firm or in-house environment. Strong knowledge of UK laws and regulations, particularly contracts, corporate governance, and compliance. EU and international law experience would be advantageous but not essential. Experience advising on public sector tendering and frameworks, including UK utilities market agreements, would be beneficial. Demonstrated ability to align legal expertise with business acumen, providing practical, solution-oriented advice. Excellent negotiation and communication skills, capable of presenting complex legal information in an accessible manner. Proactive approach to legal risk assessment, with strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities. Proven ability to manage external counsel and oversee litigation effectively. High attention to detail, with a strategic mindset and the ability to anticipate potential scenarios. Strong time management skills, able to handle tight deadlines and prioritise competing demands effectively. Summary: Position: Group Legal Counsel Location: Eastleigh Duration: Permanent Salary: £80,000 - £90,000 Base Benefits: Car Quarterly & Annual Bonus Other benefits Apply: Now If you are a qualified legal professional with a strong commercial mindset and a desire to make a strategic impact, we would love to hear from you