Senior Legal Counsel (FMGC sector) - Surrey

Motus Recruitment; England; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is looking for a Senior Legal Counsel for a large FMCG business in the Surrey/London area. The role involves drafting and reviewing commercial contracts, advising on procurement, and managing disputes. Ideal candidates should have over 5 years of PQE, strong commercial contracting skills, and the ability to influence stakeholders. This position offers a hybrid working model.

Qualifications

• 5+ PQE in-house or private practice.
• Strong commercial contracting skills and pragmatic judgement.
• Confident stakeholder manager able to influence and communicate clearly.

Responsibilities

• Draft, negotiate and review a broad range of commercial contracts.
• Advise on procurement agreements with a focus on sustainability.
• Support brand protection and IP matters.

Skills

Commercial contracting

Stakeholder management

Pragmatic judgement

Collaboration

Job description

Senior Legal Counsel

Surrey/London border - hybrid working

International FMCG business with major UK operations

Our client, a well known, large FMCG business with household brands across all major retailers is looking for a Senior Legal Counsel. Reporting to the Head of Legal, you’ll be a genuine business partner, working closely with supply chain, marketing, procurement, commercial, IT and senior leadership to deliver clear, pragmatic legal advice that supports growth and protects the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft, negotiate and review a broad range of commercial contracts (supply, distribution, logistics, co‑manufacturing, customer partnerships).
• Advise on procurement agreements with a focus on sustainability, risk and value.
• Support brand protection and IP matters (trademarks, copyright, enforcement).
• Advise on marketing, sponsorship, influencer and licensing work.
• Deliver competition law, data protection and compliance guidance and training.
• Manage disputes and support corporate transactions (JVs, asset deals).

Key Requirements

• 5+ PQE, in‑house or private practice.
• Strong commercial contracting skills and pragmatic judgement.
• Confident stakeholder manager able to influence and communicate clearly.
• Collaborative, business‑focused, able to work independently when needed.
• FMCG sector experience desirable but not essential.