Description An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Newly Qualified solicitor to join Wood’s established Eastern Hemisphere Legal team in the role of Legal Counsel. This role is responsible for the delivery of precise, commercial, timely and cost effective legal advice in respect of any matter which has potential or actual legal or reputational implications, supporting the needs of the business units (BU) across the UK, EMEA and APAC regions to achieve their short and long term strategic priorities through the effective management of legal risk and cost. The role can cover a broad spectrum of specialist areas of law on a multi-jurisdictional basis (including general business support, joint ventures, litigation/disputes, employment law, treasury, IP/innovation, real estate, company establishment and compliance matters). Responsibilities Ensure the effective, timely and cost-effective delivery of legal advice, support, governance and compliance in the relevant geographic regions, including project management of external legal service provider engagement and related budgets Support senior lawyers with complex legal analysis and problem solving, research, counsel and guidance, including effective communication of same Inputs/prepares for litigation/disputes; works with outside counsel to develop the claim/defence, or leads disputes to resolution, including instruction and supervision of outside counsel Maintains and inputs into matter and cost management databases Develop understanding of legal risks and cost, including anticipating potential risk and developing risk mitigation strategies Provide oversight of functional legal risk and management, proactively identifying and effectively managing legal risk and compliance Successfully communicates and delivers strategic legal and compliance initiatives as and when required Project management of strategic transactions (M&A, joint ventures) and litigation/disputes Manage current and new vendor relationships, identifying appropriate partners who can add value, with a focus on continuous improvement Proactively shares knowledge and experience with other members of the legal team to assist in overall development and progression of the team Supports the creation of a cohesive team and organisational culture based on values and excellence in delivery which fosters innovation and collaboration, continuous improvement and change Qualifications NQ or 1 year post qualification experience either in house or in a private practice environment. Strong commercial acumen and highly developed legal and analytical skills (e.g., negotiation, drafting, relevant legal knowledge) Time management, use of IT systems and tools. Knowledge of: Leading legal operations practices BU/service bundle risk profile and risk appetite Group performance and how it can deliver and add value to its customers Corporate governance and decision making Changing regulatory environment Current and future industry trends Legal systems in jurisdictions in which the BU/service bundle(s) operates. Experience of: legal analysis and problem solving Multiple legal practice areas to support the relevant service bundle(s), for example, corporate, commercial, dispute resolution, investigations, real estate, compliance and IP. Ability to: Consistently deliver to stakeholders Push the boundaries to create smarter, more sustainable solutions Generate trust and credibility with audiences through continuous, open and consistent communication Champion and drive innovation and change initiatives, focused on improving quality and effectiveness Work effectively across different cultures, driving a global mind-set Foster and contribute towards a customer-focused climate that delivers on expectations and strengthens relationships Disseminate legal issues in a clear, concise and pragmatic manner Meet deadlines and provide professional level of service at all times Measure performance of external counsel against budgets Work collaboratively with and influence key business unit/service bundle/functional leadership teams