Fractional General Counsel

Role Overview

• Lead corporate governance for Footasylum, ensuring compliance with statutory, regulatory, and shareholder requirements
• Act as principal legal advisor to the CEO, Executive Leadership Team and Board
• Identify, manage and mitigate legal and regulatory risk across the business
• Provide pragmatic, commercial legal advice aligned to Footasylum’s growth and brand strategy
• Support major strategic initiatives including store expansion, partnerships, acquisitions, and international development
• Embed legal insight early into business planning and decision‑making
• Oversee Board processes, including resolutions, policies, and reporting
• Maintain effective risk management frameworks and legal controls
• Lead legal support for UK and international retail operations, including store leases, property matters, and landlord negotiation
• Advise on consumer law, pricing, promotions, returns, and customer complaints
• Draft, negotiate and manage high‑value commercial contracts (suppliers, distributors, logistics, technology, sponsorships)
• Support e‑commerce operations, digital platforms, and omnichannel trading
• Protect and manage Footasylum’s intellectual property, including trademarks, branding, and licensing
• Advise marketing and brand teams on advertising standards, influencer partnerships, sponsorships, and promotions
• Manage brand risk and reputational issues
• Ensure compliance with data protection (GDPR), competition law, modern slavery, ESG and sustainability obligations
• Oversee regulatory relationships and responses where required
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments impacting the retail and consumer landscape
• Lead developing and mentoring the in‑house legal team, including personally overseeing an SQE candidate completing their QWE and certifying such steps with the SRA
• Manage external legal advisers, controlling quality, cost, and risk
• Deliver efficient, scalable legal processes appropriate for a high‑growth retail business

Requirements

• Qualified solicitor (England & Wales) with significant post‑qualification experience (8 years minimum)
• Strong background in retail, consumer, fashion, or FMCG environments (in‑house or top‑tier private practice)
• Proven experience advising senior leadership and Boards
• Commercial, pragmatic mindset with the ability to balance risk and opportunity
• Expertise in commercial contracts, retail law, consumer law, and corporate governance

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Professional development opportunities
• Flexible working hours
• Collaborative work environment
• Support for career growth