Commercial Solicitor
Location: Old Trafford Stadium
At Manchester United, we believe that excellence on the pitch starts with excellence off the pitch. Our team thrives in a high-performance environment, united by a shared passion for success. We aim to elevate the standard of performance through collaboration and continuous growth, creating a space where everyone can contribute their best to our common goals.
The Purpose:
Within the Legal & Business Affairs team, the Operational Legal Services team provides support relating to operational activities across all departments of Manchester United (including IT, Ticketing, Security, Catering, Retail and everything in between). We are looking for a commercial solicitor to join this dynamic and service-orientated team, reporting to the Head of Operational Legal Services.
The Role:
The role will involve providing legal advice across a variety of aspects of the Manchester United business, including:
* procurement of goods and services across the Manchester United group (with a particular focus on technology systems and infrastructure);
* the club’s direct to consumer offerings (including multimedia and match-based products/services);
* stadium operations (including ticketing, consumer issues and stadium hire);
* the collection and processing of personal data (including projects where the club is appointing data processors);
* projects relating to real estate and construction; and
* ad-hoc legal advice across a variety of matters.
The role does not include work on sponsorship agreements, product licensing, brand protection and/or football transactions.
The Person:
You will be a UK-qualified solicitor with excellent academic credentials and ideally around 4-7 years’ PQE, trained and qualified at a leading law firm or in a reputable in-house team. Applications from those with relevant experience but outside of the PQE range stated are still welcomed. Please note that this role is based in Manchester.
Essential Experience:
* Experience of drafting and negotiating a wide range of commercial contracts (working largely autonomously).
* Experience of advising on data protection matters, including drafting and negotiating data processing provisions (note a candidate is not required to be an expert in this area, however familiarity with data protection issues would be expected).
* Experience of liaising with, and reporting to, senior management.
Desirable Experience:
* An understanding of the business of professional football and sport and/or event staging venues.
* Experience of the procurement of technology and/or software products and solutions.
* Knowledge of non-contentious intellectual property matters.
* Experience of business to consumer relationships.
* Experience of dispute management (note that formal litigation experience is not necessary).
* Supervision of junior colleagues.
Key Requirements:
* Work both independently and as part of a team, providing technically sound and commercially focused legal advice.
* Be committed, service-oriented, and flexible, with the capability to manage multiple workstreams under tight deadlines.
* Communicate effectively across all areas of the business, explaining legal principles in clear, straightforward terms.
* Balance accurate legal advice with practical, commercially focused solutions, maintaining composure under pressure and tight deadlines.
* Be collaborative, enthusiastic, and open to professional development.
* Be motivated to work for a globally renowned brand and sporting team.
What We Offer:
* Annual Incentive Scheme
* Wellness Support with access to mental health resources, digital health checks, and nutritionists through Aviva Digicare+ Workplace
* Exclusive Discounts through our United Rewards platform, giving you access to exclusive deals from the club and partners
* Gym Facilities in our onsite locations and opportunities for regular social events and team-building activities
* Enhanced Family Leave Benefits and an opportunity to purchase additional holiday days
* Enhanced Career Development with access to professional learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, and internal training programs
* A Supportive Work Environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion, and individual growth
Our Commitment to You:
At Manchester United, we believe that a diverse and inclusive environment makes us stronger. We are committed to building a team where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Diversity, equity and inclusion are at the core of our recruitment strategy, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
Ready to Join Us?
If this sounds like the perfect role for you, please submit your application by Thursday 24th April 2025.
Manchester United is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, and as part of this commitment, all candidates will undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check and reference checks.
If you need any adjustments to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, please feel free to contact us, and we will be happy to discuss them with you.
It is unlawful to employ a person in a UK-based job who does not have permission to live and work in the UK. You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to you before applying for any of our roles. Your personal data will be processed on MU’s behalf by Korn Ferry.
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