In-house Legal Counsel; International M&A

Legal Counsel (2-4 PQE) Manchester (Hybrid Working) Private Equity-Backed | International Growth | First In-House Move

An ambitious, private equity-backed international group is seeking a talented 2-4 PQE corporate solicitor to join its growing legal function in Manchester.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a corporate lawyer in private practice looking to make a first move in‑house into a broad, high‑impact role with real autonomy, exposure to senior stakeholders and a clear pathway for progression as the business continues its international expansion.

Reporting to the General Counsel and working closely with senior leadership, you will play a key role in supporting international M&A activity and the continued professionalisation of governance and risk frameworks across the Group.

• Meaningful involvement in cross-border M&A transactions
• Exposure to strategic growth initiatives in a PE-backed environment
• The opportunity to broaden into a genuinely generalist in‑house role
• Direct access to senior decision‑makers
• The chance to shape legal processes, templates and governance frameworks as the function evolves
• This is a hands‑on role suited to someone who enjoys taking ownership while having the support of an experienced GC.

• M&A & Growth
• Supporting domestic and international acquisitions
• Drafting and negotiating NDAs and engagement letters
• Managing external advisers
• Reviewing due diligence and advising on structuring and entity set‑up
• Assisting with post‑acquisition integration
• Corporate Governance & Co Sec
• Supporting board and shareholder processes
• Assisting with governance documentation and compliance obligations
• Supporting corporate restructurings and financing requirements
• Commercial & Operational
• Drafting and negotiating a wide range of commercial contracts
• Advising on risk allocation, liability, indemnities and IP ownership
• Supporting technology and software procurement projects
• Advising on data protection and emerging AI considerations
• Risk & Compliance
• Maintaining and coordinating risk registers across jurisdictions
• Supporting policy development and group-wide compliance initiatives

• Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales), 2-4 years' PQE
• Strong corporate, banking or restructuring experience from a reputable firm
• Experience in M&A (cross-border exposure advantageous)
• Commercially minded and pragmatic in your approach to risk
• Confident dealing directly with stakeholders
• Keen to step into a broader, business-facing role
• This role would particularly suit a corporate associate in Manchester looking for:
• A first move in‑house without losing exposure to high-quality M&A work
• Greater ownership and visibility
• A more balanced and sustainable working environment
• Clear progression within an expanding international group

• Competitive salary and bonus
• Hybrid working (Manchester city centre base)
• Exposure to international growth strategy
• Genuine scope to develop into a senior in‑house position as the function scales

If you are a 2-4 PQE corporate lawyer ready to take the next step in your career and join a high-growth, PE-backed business where you can make a tangible impact, we would welcome a confidential discussion.