Lead Specialist, Legal Counsel

Role Summary

This role aligns to industry-level titles such as Commercial Counsel, Commercial Lawyer.

We are seeking an experienced commercial lawyer to provide legal support to Pearson’s businesses in the UK and Europe, including the English Language Learning business. The role will be responsible for delivering end-to-end legal support across a wide range of matters, including commercial contracts, the development and sale of technology-enabled products, rights and licensing issues, litigation support, compliance and regulatory issues.

The role will work closely with business stakeholders as a trusted advisor, supporting go‑to‑market initiatives, business development, RFPs and tenders, and the effective management of internal and external relationships. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience of working internationally, with particular experience across the UK and Europe, and a strong background in advising on product and technology matters, with a good working knowledge of intellectual property issues. In addition, the role will support the development and maintenance of legal templates and processes, including for digital and AI‑related products, monitor legislative developments, and help ensure compliance with applicable laws and group policies. The role will work collaboratively with the wider legal team to support broader business and team priorities as needed.

 

Key Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of commercial agreements including product terms, vendor, sales, distribution and marketing agreements, while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and best practices. 

• Support go‑to‑market and sales initiatives, advising on the commercialisation and distribution of products.

• Provide legal support for RFPs, tenders and other business development activities.

• Advise on rights, licensing, and regulatory issues.

• Support litigation, investigations, and contentious matters.

• Support compliance activities in partnership with Pearson’s Global Compliance Office as required, including assisting with policy implementation and compliance training (e.g. anti‑bribery and corruption, sanctions and antitrust), and acting as a local compliance contact where appropriate.

• Support local corporate governance matters for Pearson entities in the UK and Europe as required, helping maintain alignment with applicable regulations, best practices and internal policies.

• Collaborate with business teams, external counsel and specialist colleagues in the wider Legal function as needed.

• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments and support implementation of applicable legal and policy requirements.

• Maintain and update legal templates and guides.

 

Core skills and behaviours

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a keen attention to detail and a proactive approach to managing risk and advising the business.
• Ability to handle multiple projects and priorities in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to develop relationships across the organisation and influence and collaborate effectively with a broad range of teams.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills with the ability to clearly explain complex legal concepts to non‑legal stakeholders and tailor advice to business needs.
• Strong leadership skills, ethical standards and professional integrity. Sets high standards of performance for self and others and demonstrates composure and resilience under difficult and challenging circumstances.
• Proactive in identifying risks and opportunities to improve legal processes and ways of working.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken) is required.

Qualifications

• UK-qualified solicitor (England & Wales) with proven post qualification experience in commercial law.
• Strong commercial contracting and negotiation experience, and good working knowledge of IP and data privacy. 
• Experience in the education and technology sectors is preferred.
• International experience required, with experience in Europe preferred.
• Excellent judgment, communication, and business acumen.
• Able to work independently, manage multiple priorities and handle complex matters.

 

Apply now and help shape what’s next.

 

Role location: This is a hybrid-working role across the UK, whereby you'll work flexibly between your home and offices. London office area bases are preferable. Wishing you success with your application! 

Pearson is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against employees or job applicants and select the best person for each job based on relevant skills and experience. We are also committed to building an accurate picture of the make up of the workforce and encouraging equality and diversity. The information you provide will remain confidential and will be stored securely. It will not be seen by those involved in making decisions as part of the recruitment process.