Legal Counsel

As Legal Counsel you will provide legal support and advice across the ABS Business unit in the UK and EMEA. Working as part of a small, specialist global team reporting to the Group Assistant General Counsel.

You will be responsible for providing general legal advice as well as the drafting and negotiation of commercial contracts, analysing commercial risk and ensuring that effective communication is maintained with the relevant business customers and external counsel, as well as providing support to the Group General Counsel, Genus, as required.

You will need to be based close enough to our Stapeley office in Cheshire to be able to be on site on a regular basis

• Provide legal advice and support across various business functions.
• Draft, review, and negotiate commercial contracts and agreements including distribution agreements and research collaboration agreements.
• Undertake legal research and analysis and utilise this to inform work being delivered.
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
• Assist in managing legal risks and developing strategies to mitigate them.
• Liaise with external legal advisors when necessary to coordinate discovery responses, review filings and other documents as required.
• Participate in the development and roll out of legal training for the broader organisation.
• Support the legal team in various projects and initiatives.

• Educated to degree level
• Legally qualified in the UK to practice as a solicitor
• 2-5 years experience in an in-house legal environment or potentially looking to transition from private practice.
• Strong understanding of contract law and proven experience in drafting and negotiating a wide range of contracts.
• Experience in drafting and rolling out legal training.
• Experience in compliance regimes: Data Privacy, Bribery Act, FCPA etc.
• Experience in a global environment preferred.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively as part of a team (in person and virtual setting).
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and remain focused
• Travel as required to fulfill job duties – including travel to Stapeley, Cheshire and Basingstoke, UK. Must have or be willing to obtain passport and have the ability to travel globally.

Genus is an agricultural biotechnology pioneer. We are a global FTSE 250 company, headquartered in the UK, and listed on the London Stock Exchange. Genus PLC has a presence in over 70 countries and a global workforce of over 3,000 employees and growing.  We are a worldwide leader in porcine and bovine animal genetics, partnering with farmers to transform how we nourish the world – a mission that is important to a sustainable future. 

Our vision is clear: Pioneering animal genetic improvement to sustainably nourish the world.

Our Values

• Collaborate as One Team
• Create Value for Customers
• Innovate with Purpose
• Never stop improving

DEI

Genus is a place where you can be yourself and be part of a growing global team. We have a culture of respect, openness and fairness for all. Whatever your background, your role or your area of work, you will have the chance to thrive in an environment that inspires, challenges and supports you to succeed.

• Monitor and identify goals for the reduction of our GHG emissions from our own operations.
• Drive porcine and bovine genetic improvements which support productivity gains and improve feed efficiency, enabling a reduction in the production of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions per unit of milk or meat produced
• Identify facility and other opportunities for reductions in GHG emissions, consistent with our goals
• Partner and advocate for policies that advance positive climate goals and identified United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

• Performance related bonus
• 25 days holidays + Bank Holidays 
• NFU Pension
• Health Cash back scheme 
• Employee Assistance Program 
• Employee share plan 
• Flexible Working Policy (Where appropriate/practicable) 
• Enhanced maternity leave 12 weeks at full pay followed by 4 weeks at 50% followed by SMP
• Comprehensive L&D program including career development programs, access to Genus University and Mango (languages) 

Genus is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. Genus prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Genus conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.

Genus plc will never ask you to provide fees or payment for computer, software, or other equipment or supplies during the recruitment and/or onboarding process. If you have any questions about your individual application, please contact the Genus Talent Acquisition team at recruiting@genusplc.com.