In-house Legal Counsel (International M&A)

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 Opportunity Reporting 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.