In-house Legal Counsel (International M&A)

Job description

Legal Counsel (2-4 PQE)

Manchester (Hybrid Working)

Private Equity-Backed | International Growth | First In-House Move

An ambitious, private equity-backed international group is seeking a talented 2-4 PQE corporate solicitor to join its growing legal function in Manchester.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a corporate lawyer in private practice looking to make a first move in‐house into a broad, high‐impact role with real autonomy, exposure to senior stakeholders and a clear pathway for progression as the business continues its international expansion.

The OpportunityReporting to the General Counsel and working closely with senior leadership, you will play a key role in supporting international M&A activity and the continued professionalisation of governance and risk frameworks across the Group.

You will gain:

Meaningful involvement in cross‐border M&A transactions

Exposure to strategic growth initiatives in a PE-backed environment

The opportunity to broaden into a genuinely generalist in‐house role

Direct access to senior decision‐makers

The chance to shape legal processes, templates and governance frameworks as the function evolves

This is a hands‐on role suited to someone who enjoys taking ownership while having the support of an experienced GC

Key Responsibilities

M&A & Growth

Supporting domestic and international acquisitions

Drafting and negotiating NDAs and engagement letters

Managing external advisers

Reviewing due diligence and advising on structuring and entity set‐up

Assisting with post‐acquisition integration

Corporate Governance & CoSec

Supporting board and shareholder processes

Assisting with governance documentation and compliance obligations

Supporting corporate restructurings and financing requirements

Commercial & Operational

Drafting and negotiating a wide range of commercial contracts

Advising on risk allocation, liability, indemnities and IP ownership

Supporting technology and software procurement projects

Advising on data protection and emerging AI considerations

Risk & Compliance

Maintaining and coordinating risk registers across jurisdictions

Supporting policy development and group‐wide compliance initiatives

About You

Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales), 2-4 years' PQE

Strong corporate, banking or restructuring experience from a reputable firm

Experience in M&A (cross‐border exposure advantageous)

Commercially minded and pragmatic in your approach to risk

Confident dealing directly with stakeholders

Keen to step into a broader, business-facing role

This role would particularly suit a corporate associate in Manchester looking for:

A first move in‐house without losing exposure to high-quality M&A work

Greater ownership and visibility

A more balanced and sustainable working environment

Clear progression within an expanding international group

The Package

Competitive salary and bonus

Hybrid working (Manchester city centre base)

Exposure to international growth strategy

Genuine scope to develop into a senior in‐house position as the function scales

If you are a 2-4 PQE corporate lawyer ready to take the next step in your career and join a high-growth, PE-backed business where you can make a tangible impact, we would welcome a confidential discussion.

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Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Manchester

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

03-04-2026

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English