Legal Counsel

Information about the business and team

Our client is an international value fashion retailer and part of Associated British Foods plc, operating hundreds of stores across Europe and the US. The business runs a complex, fast paced operating model supported by significant technology, procurement and supply chain functions, with legal working closely alongside senior stakeholders on major corporate transactions, transformation programmes and change initiatives.

What does the client need help with?

The team needs additional capacity to help with corporate transaction work they cannot fulfil within the existing team.

What will the role involve?

This is an interim M&A role where you will operate with a high degree of autonomy and exposure to key stakeholders across the business.

Key elements of the role include:

• Leading and running due diligence processes on complex corporate transactions
• Drafting and negotiating SPAs, TSAs and ancillary corporate documentation
• Advising on complex corporate transactions and change programmes from inception through to completion
• Supporting governance, financial readiness and deal execution workstreams
• Working closely with senior colleagues across Legal, Finance, Technology and Procurement to drive matters forward at pace

What skills do they need?

You will be a strong corporate/M&A lawyer, ideally between 4-7 years' PQE, experienced in handling complex transactions in fast moving environments. You will be comfortable operating autonomously, advising senior stakeholders, and applying a clear, pragmatic approach suited to a large retail business. UK or Ireland qualification is required, alongside the ability to work on site as needed.

Working Pattern

Full time

Start Date

End of April 2026

Duration

12 months

IR35 status

Employed models only

Hybrid in Reading (near to the train station on the Elizabeth line) Or Dublin

Hybrid location required.