Group Legal Counsel

About the role

Sumer is seeking a commercially‑focused Group Legal Counsel to join its legal team in Newcastle Upon Tyne. Reporting to the General Counsel, you will provide practical legal advice that directly influences business decisions across the organisation.

Key responsibilities

• Advise on commercial, contractual and data‑protection matters for procurement, IT, Finance, People & Culture and client‑facing teams.
• Oversee legal and data‑protection aspects of outsourcing and off‑shoring arrangements.
• Support group projects and initiatives, ensuring data‑protection compliance.
• Develop and maintain standard contract templates, playbooks and internal guidance.
• Provide legal input into policies, frameworks and control mechanisms.
• Manage disputes and contentious matters through external counsel.
• Assist with M&A integration workstreams.

Required profile

• Qualified Solicitor admitted to practice in England & Wales or Scotland.
• 3–5 years post‑qualification experience in commercial law, either in private practice or in‑house.
• Proven experience negotiating commercial and procurement contracts, including master services and framework agreements.
• Strong commercial awareness and ability to align legal advice with business strategy.

Required skills

• Excellent drafting and negotiation skills.
• Clear communication of complex legal issues to non‑lawyers.
• Self‑starter with strong organisational abilities and attention to detail.

What we offer

• Flexible working arrangements – remote, hybrid or office‑based.
• Opportunity to influence high‑impact commercial decisions.
• Consideration of both full‑time and part‑time contracts.