Great role for an experienced FMCG Senior Legal Counsel/HoL looking for a step up - London (Hybrid)

ZipRecruiter; London; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A high-growth FMCG company seeks a Chief Legal Officer to lead legal functions, manage contracts, and ensure compliance. Ideal for a UK-qualified solicitor with extensive FMCG experience, ready to impact a scaling business. Collaborate with teams on IP strategy and oversee M&A activities.

Qualifications

• 8–10 years PQE in a legal role.
• Extensive experience in the FMCG industry.

Responsibilities

• Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership.
• Lead negotiation of commercial contracts.
• Oversee corporate governance and compliance.

Skills

Commercial Awareness

Negotiation

Regulatory Compliance

M&A Expertise

Leadership

Education

UK-qualified solicitor

Job description

Job Description

We are thrilled to partner with a high-growth FMCG business in their search for a Chief Legal Officer – a pivotal role within the organisation’s continued expansion.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a dynamic and ambitious legal professional, currently operating as a Senior Legal Counsel or Head of Legal within the food and beverage sector, who is ready to take the next step in their career.

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as a trusted advisor to the senior leadership team and board.
• Lead and oversee the negotiation and management of a wide range of commercial contracts, including: licensing agreements, distribution and supply chain contracts, manufacturing and production agreements, customer and supplier arrangements.
• Oversee corporate governance and company secretarial duties.
• Ensure full regulatory compliance across operations.
• Take the lead on all M&A activity, including cross-border transactions.
• Collaborate with Marketing and R&D teams to shape and execute the intellectual property strategy.
• Manage external legal spend and relationships with outside counsel.

Candidate Requirements:

• UK-qualified solicitor with 8–10 years PQE.
• Extensive and recent experience within the FMCG industry – essential.
• Deep understanding of FMCG regulatory frameworks.
• Proven experience in cross-border M&A, particularly involving US-based entities.
• Well-rounded legal expertise across commercial, IP, litigation, and corporate governance.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Commercially minded with the drive to support and scale an international business.

This is a unique and exciting opportunity for a highly capable legal professional to make a meaningful impact and shape the legal function of a fast-paced, scaling FMCG company.

If this role has struck a chord and you are interested in discussing in more detail, please kindly share your CV with Sarah - [e-mail]