Senior Legal Counsel - M&A and Ventures

Review: Elevate Your Legal Career as a Corporate Lawyer at Reckitt

Reckitt, a global powerhouse in hygiene, health, and nutrition, presents an exceptional opportunity for a driven and commercially minded Corporate Lawyer. This in-depth review offers insights into what makes this role a compelling next step for your career.

A Purpose-Driven Global Leader

Joining Reckitt means becoming part of a team united by a powerful purpose: "to protect, heal and nurture in the relentless pursuit of a cleaner, healthier world." As a global team, you'll contribute to making high-quality hygiene, wellness, and nourishment accessible to all. This foundational commitment to positive societal impact provides a motivating and meaningful work environment for legal professionals seeking to contribute beyond traditional corporate objectives.

Advantages of This Opportunity:

• Strategic & High-Impact Legal Role: The Legal and Compliance function at Reckitt goes beyond traditional boundaries, positioning itself as a strategic partner to drive business growth, mitigate risks, and champion ethical and sustainable practices. This role is not just about legal advice; it's about shaping the corporate landscape and contributing directly to the company's strategic direction.
• Exposure to International M&A and Senior Leadership: As part of the Group Legal team, reporting to the Legal Director for Group M&A, you will be at the heart of international acquisition and divestment activity. This involves working on complex projects, engaging with senior stakeholders across various functions, and managing external counsel. This level of exposure is invaluable for career growth in corporate law.
• Commitment to Growth & Innovation: The role actively encourages driving process improvements through innovation, legal solutions, and technology. Reckitt's legal team is forward-thinking, providing a platform for you to not only apply your expertise but also to innovate and develop new capabilities.
• Supportive & Inclusive Culture: Reckitt emphasizes inclusion and supports its people at every step of their career journey through global Employee Resource Groups and various wellbeing initiatives, including parental benefits and an Employee Assistance Program. This commitment fosters an environment where diverse talent can thrive.
• Attractive Compensation & Benefits: Beyond competitive local market benefits, Reckitt offers global share plans, short-term incentives for outstanding results, and a clear "pay for performance" philosophy, ensuring your contributions are recognised and rewarded.

Key Considerations for Potential Candidates:

• Proven M&A Expertise Required: This is a sophisticated in-house role requiring a qualified lawyer (English law or similar jurisdiction) with 3-4+ years PQE specializing in corporate law and M&A. Candidates must demonstrate strong corporate/transactional work experience, either from a prominent private practice firm or a leading international business in-house team, with specific experience supporting listed businesses.
• Commercial Acumen and Strategic Mindset: Success in this role demands more than just legal proficiency. You'll need to deliver consistent, strategic, risk-weighted, and business-focused legal advice, acting as a facilitator between functional teams to deliver integrated business and legal solutions.
• Autonomy and Stakeholder Management: The ability to work autonomously, take personal ownership over tasks, and build strong relationships with senior leadership and diverse functional teams is crucial. You'll be expected to manage complex projects and external counsel effectively.
• Complexity and Deadlines: The role involves dealing with complex, significant matters that often cut across multi-jurisdictional laws, requiring excellent attention to detail, strong prioritization skills, and the ability to manage diverse workloads under challenging deadlines.

Guiding Your Career Path:

This "rare in-house role" is ideal for an ambitious corporate lawyer looking to make a significant impact within a global, FTSE-listed organisation. If you are passionate about M&A, thrive in a dynamic environment, and are eager to evolve from a legal advisor to a strategic business partner, this opportunity offers immense potential. You will deepen your expertise in international M&A, refine your stakeholder management and negotiation skills, and contribute to groundbreaking transactions that shape a cleaner, healthier world.

Reckitt's commitment to hiring for potential, alongside experience, means that even if you don't tick every single box, they encourage you to apply if you feel this role aligns with your aspirations and capabilities. This is an invitation to leave an enduring legacy within a company that values innovation, impact, and inclusion.