About the Business
This is a UK-based investment firm with an international remit which focuses on life sciences.
About the role
This is a 1-year Fixed-Term Contract. The Legal Counsel will provide critical support to the investment activities and portfolio management activities of the firm. There is a primary focus on reviewing, drafting, and negotiating investment-related documents and term sheets. You will also be assisting portfolio company directors with all aspects of the portfolio, from drafting and reviewing commercial contracts, including CDAs, MSAs and licencing agreements and share option documentation, to assisting with transactions for the portfolio companies (e.g. M&A, exits) and many things in between.
Main Responsibilities
Investment Support:
- Review, draft, and negotiate transaction documentation, including term sheets and long form documents.
Portfolio Company Support:
- Deliver ad hoc legal support to portfolio companies, including review of commercial contracts, MSAs, service agreements, consultancy contracts, and basic IP or licensing matters.
Cross Functional Collaboration:
- Work closely with colleagues across Investment, Operations, and Finance teams.
Governance & Internal Legal Matters:
- Assist with internal contract review and general legal risk management.
What you'll need to be successful
- UK-qualified solicitor, with 3-5 years' post-qualification experience (or appropriate equivalent)
- Background in corporate law, ideally gained at a leading City or international law firm
- Direct experience in venture capital or M&A transactions
- Strong drafting, negotiation, and communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple work streams and prioritise effectively in a fast-paced environment
- Sound judgement, commercial awareness, and attention to detail
- Comfortable working autonomously, with appropriate judgement on when to escalate and enjoys working as part of a small team
- Experience in or exposure to the life sciences sector is advantageous but not essential.
