Senior Legal Counsel – M&A (5+ years PQE)

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Legal Counsel with at least five years post‑qualification experience to join Oliver James’ portfolio operations team in London. The role provides direct exposure to a diverse range of private‑equity portfolio companies, supporting them through the full investment life‑cycle.

Key responsibilities

• Advise portfolio companies on corporate, commercial, governance, litigation and restructuring matters.
• Support acquisitions, carve‑outs, integration projects, transformation initiatives and exit transactions.
• Develop and implement legal policies, governance frameworks and best‑practice standards across the portfolio.
• Identify legal risks with management teams and propose commercially focused solutions.
• Coordinate and manage external legal advisers across multiple jurisdictions.
• Ensure compliance with group policies, governance requirements and regulatory obligations.

Required profile

• Qualified solicitor, attorney or equivalent legal professional.
• Minimum 5 years post‑qualification experience in corporate and commercial law.
• Experience gained in a leading law firm, private‑equity environment or similar.
• Commercially minded with ability to work in fast‑paced, multi‑stakeholder settings.

Required skills