Senior Counsel (Lead UK appointment)

I am exclusively partnering with a fast-growing, internationally active business operating in a highly sought-after and specialist sector spanning live events, premium hospitality, travel and global experiences. This is a newly created opportunity for a 5+ PQE England & Wales qualified lawyer to step into a first UK Counsel role with genuine scope to shape and build legal processes, influence senior stakeholders and develop into a future leadership position. The role is based in Cheshire and there is a hybrid policy although the expectation is that you will prefer to be in the office where possible. The Opportunity Reporting directly to the Head of Legal, you will be the key UK legal adviser to a commercially ambitious and fast-paced business. You will enjoy broad exposure across commercial contracts, disputes, regulatory and compliance matters, employment and data protection - all within a dynamic, project-driven environment. Crucially, this role offers more than just advisory work. You will play a central role in developing and refining legal frameworks, improving processes, and embedding best practice across the organisation as it continues to scale internationally. Key Responsibilities * Drafting, reviewing and negotiating a wide range of commercial contracts (customers and suppliers), including complex, high-value and time-sensitive agreements * Advising on consumer matters, brand protection and regulatory compliance * Supporting employment matters in partnership with HR * Providing guidance on UK GDPR and data protection compliance in a commercial context * Managing pre- and post-contract disputes and liaising with external counsel where required * Reviewing insurance documentation and advising on risk allocation * Supporting senior leadership with concise document summaries and strategic legal input * Attending stakeholder meetings and contributing commercially focused, solutions-driven advice The Candidate - Qualified solicitors with 5+ years' PQE gained in a reputable law firm or in-house environment. - Experience in commercial contracts is essential; exposure to consumer, regulatory, employment and data protection matters would be advantageous. You will demonstrate: * Strong commercial acumen and the ability to translate legal risk into practical advice * Confidence operating autonomously while knowing when to escalate * Excellent drafting and negotiation skills * Comfort working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment * A proactive mindset with the appetite to build, improve and influence Why This Role? * A rare opportunity to enter an exciting and specialist global sector * Genuine breadth of work with high stakeholder visibility * The chance to build and refine legal processes within a scaling organisation * Direct access to senior leadership and decision-making * A platform for long-term growth and progression