Legal Counsel - Commercial Lawyer - Associate Director - Permanent - London

EY; City Of London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading professional services firm based in London is seeking a Legal Counsel to join their Commercial Team. The role involves advising on a variety of commercial agreements and offering practical legal advice to enhance the firm's strategy. Candidates should have over 8 years of experience, with a strong emphasis on negotiation and communication skills. This position offers flexibility and comprehensive benefits, fostering professional development and inclusivity.

Benefits

Competitive remuneration

Comprehensive rewards package

Professional development opportunities

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• 8 or more years of post-qualification experience, with significant in-house experience.
• Ability to provide practical legal advice in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience advising on the use of GenAI in service provision is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Advise on, draft, and negotiate a wide range of commercial agreements.
• Provide legal support on tenders and RFP responses.
• Offer legal advice on technology strategy and related services.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Commercial awareness

Team collaboration

Deadline management

Job description

Legal Counsel – Commercial Lawyer – Associate Director – Permanent – London

At EY we’re committed to shaping a future of confidence and opportunity. We bring together diverse teams across a global network to deliver trusted professional services and innovative solutions to our clients.

The Opportunity

EY’s Commercial Team supports our entire UK business, advising on all aspects of commercial and technology strategy for a broad portfolio of clients—including global banks, technology providers, pharma and defence, and leading public sector bodies. The role is based in our London Bridge office and is part of the General Counsel’s Office, supporting the firm’s commercial legal practice.

Your Key Responsibilities

• Advise on, draft, and negotiate a wide range of commercial agreements, including Master Services Agreements, Global Framework Agreements, Managed Services and Outsourcing Agreements, Subcontracts, Collaboration Agreements, and both traditional and SaaS Software and Licensing Agreements.
• Provide legal support on tenders, RFP responses, and contract negotiations with suppliers.
• Offer practical legal advice and commercial insight to the firm’s service lines, support functions (real estate, facilities, procurement, finance, talent, IT, knowledge, marketing) and lead firm-wide projects.
• Advise on technology strategy, including the use of GenAI and the provision of technology-related services.

Skills and Attributes for Success

• Strong team player with excellent negotiation and communication skills.
• Demonstrable commitment to the attributes of high‑performing teams—focus on results, accountability, collaboration, and trustworthy relationships.
• Ability to remain calm and manage conflicting, evolving deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Commercial awareness of business issues and proactive scanning for new service offerings to support the firm’s evolution.
• Self‑starter, adept at juggling deadlines and building relationships based on trust and confidence.

To Qualify for the Role, You Must Have

• 8 or more years of post‑qualification experience, with significant in‑house experience.
• Practical legal advice in a fast‑paced environment with credibility, respect, and trust at all levels, including senior members of the firm.
• Ideally, experience advising on the use of GenAI in service provision and experience using GenAI to support the delivery of legal services.

What Working at EY Offers

• Competitive remuneration and a comprehensive Total Rewards package covering holidays, health, insurance, savings, and a wide range of discounts and promotions.
• Support, coaching, and feedback from engaging colleagues.
• Opportunities to develop new skills and progress your career.
• The freedom and flexibility to shape your role in a way that works for you.

Flexibility and Inclusive Working

EY is committed to being an inclusive employer and offers flexible working arrangements to help you balance your professional and personal priorities. Regular travel to client sites may be required.

How to Apply

If you can confidently demonstrate that you meet the criteria above, please contact us as soon as possible to discuss the next steps.