Senior Legal Counsel

Taylor Root; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialist pharmaceutical company is seeking a Senior Legal Counsel specializing in IP & Licensing. The ideal candidate is a UK-qualified lawyer with 6+ years of PQE, including at least 4 years in the pharmaceutical industry. Responsibilities include drafting commercial agreements and leading on IP matters. Join a collaborative, mission-driven organization that supports professional growth and offers a hybrid working environment with opportunities for travel.

Benefits

Hybrid/remote setup

Opportunities for professional growth

Qualifications

• 6+ years PQE, with at least 4 years in a pharmaceutical environment.
• Experience in cross-border licensing and distribution contracts.
• Ability to provide legal advice across jurisdictions.

Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate commercial agreements.
• Lead on IP licensing and patent litigation matters.
• Collaborate to develop and implement IP strategy.

Skills

UK-qualified lawyer

Commercial law expertise

Strong negotiation skills

Interpersonal skills

Knowledge of IP law

Education

Solicitor qualification

Job description

🔍 We're Hiring : Senior Legal Counsel – IP & Licensing

📍 Location : Hybrid / Remote (with occasional travel to our Leeds office)

🏢 Department : Legal

📣 Reports To : General Counsel

Are you a seasoned legal professional with a passion for intellectual property and licensing in the pharmaceutical space? Join a global organisation dedicated to delivering patient-centric medicines that make a real difference—especially for those with swallowing difficulties or requiring precise dosing alternatives.

About Us

We’re a specialist pharmaceutical company committed to innovation, quality, and inclusive healthcare. Operating internationally, we focus on developing and supplying tailored medicines that meet the needs of diverse patient populations.

The Role

As Senior Legal Counsel – IP & Licensing, you’ll be the go-to legal expert for commercial contracts, patent advice, and licensing matters across our business development and international sales teams. You’ll support operations in the US, Canada, and EMEA, helping shape our legal strategy and governance.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate commercial agreements, including in-licensing, out-licensing, and development contracts.
• Lead on IP licensing, patent litigation, and related legal matters.
• Collaborate with R&D and General Counsel to develop and implement IP strategy.
• Provide pragmatic legal advice across jurisdictions, balancing risk and commercial goals.
• Enhance legal governance, templates, and compliance processes.
• Deliver legal training and briefings on industry-relevant legislative changes.
• Promote legal and compliance best practices across the organisation.

What We’re Looking For

• UK-qualified lawyer with 6+ years PQE , including 4+ years in industry (pharmaceuticals preferred).
• Deep expertise in cross-border licensing , development, and distribution contracts.
• Strong knowledge of commercial, corporate, and IP law .
• Experience working with external counsel and managing multi-jurisdictional legal matters.
• Exposure to Private Equity environments is a plus.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a mission-driven company making a tangible impact on patient lives.
• Work in a collaborative, innovative, and inclusive environment.
• Enjoy flexibility with a hybrid / remote setup and opportunities for professional growth.

📩 Ready to make a difference? Apply now or reach out for a confidential conversation.