At Southern Co-op we offer a lot more than just a job. As we are completely owned by our 200,000+ members, we put people first. Become part of the family who are proud to serve local communities and put people first

We have an exciting opportunity to join our team as a Legal Assistant. This role is based at our head office in Portsmouth. The role offers hybrid working with a minimum of two days in the office. The office has great amenities with onsite parking and a lakeside shuttle bus service. 

We are seeking an individual who will provide a range of in-house legal advice in relation to Southern Co-op’s business needs working in a small team you’ll have a real chance to get closely involved with an ethical, sustainable retail business with a strong local community focus.

What to expect

• Provide expert, accurate, timely practical and commercially sound advice in response to the business’s needs, whether by reviewing, drafting and negotiating agreements and documents, researching legal issues and providing ad hoc legal advice or otherwise and proactively to remain updated on relevant legal developments and keep the business informed, as appropriate.
• Assist as necessary in relation to company secretarial matters and governance processes
• Assist in operating statutory compliance programmes such as data protection.
• Provide legal advice and support relating to contractual and procurement matters across a wide range of contracts relating to goods and services not for retail.
• Assist and/or cover for other members of the Corporate Affairs department at times of annual leave, sickness or when workload requires it, so far as own commitments allow, to ensure the operational needs of the department are met.

Key skills required

• Legal knowledge in relation to one or more areas of corporate and commercial law, for example, IP/IT; digital, marketing, property, contracts, franchising, regulatory compliance, retail, end of life services, environmental.
• Commercial awareness and understanding of key factors such as sustainability, co-operative values and principles, risk management and ethical issues and their relevance in relation to contractual arrangements.
• Excellent organisational skills and ability to multi-task.
• High level of literacy and ability to write reports clearly and concisely with attention to detail.
• Excellent communicator with the ability to communicate with people at all levels.
• High standards of personal and professional integrity.
• Previous experience in a similar role either in house or in private practice.
• Paralegal qualification is useful but not essential. 

Benefits

• Salary of £31,971
• 31 days of annual leave (incl bank holidays) increasing over time to a maximum of 36 days after 10 years’ service.
• 20% discount in stores
• Hybrid working
• Healthcare cash plan
• Share incentive plan
• NEST pension
• Cycle-to-work scheme
• Free onsite parking at our Lakeside Head Office
• Opportunities to develop your skills through apprenticeships and our own in-house training & development programmes

If we receive a high volume of relevant applications, we may close the advert earlier than the advertised date, so please apply as soon as you can.

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