General Counsel

Location London
Contact name: Tom Haussrer

Contact email: tom.haussrer@greshamhunt.com
Job ref: 1605

Biotechnology Firm

London, UK – hybrid 3 days/week in office

Gresham Hunt are currently partnered with a leading Private Equity client in their search for a General Counsel for one of their Biotech portfolio companies.
As the General Counsel, you will be a key member of the executive leadership team, providing strategic legal counsel and guidance across all aspects of the businesses. This role requires a seasoned legal professional with extensive experience in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry.

Responsibilities:

  • Provide expert legal advice and guidance to senior management on a wide range of legal matters, including corporate governance, intellectual property, licensing agreements, commercial transactions and regulatory compliance.
  • Lead and manage the legal department, including hiring, training, and mentoring legal staff.
  • Develop and implement company-wide policies and procedures to ensure compliance with relevant UK laws and regulations, including MHRA regulations, data privacy laws, and industry standards.
  • Negotiate and draft complex agreements, including licensing agreements, collaboration agreements, supply agreements, and commercial contracts in accordance with UK laws and regulations.
  • Oversee intellectual property strategy and portfolio management, including patent prosecution, licensing, and enforcement.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, regulatory affairs, marketing, and finance, to support business objectives and drive successful outcomes in the UK.
  • Stay abreast of legal and regulatory developments in the biotechnology industry in the UK, Europe and US and advise senior management on potential impacts to the business.
  • Manage and resolve legal disputes, including litigation and alternative dispute resolution.
  • Represent the company in negotiations with government agencies, regulatory bodies, and external stakeholders.

Qualifications:

  • Minimum of 10 years of experience practicing law, with a focus on the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry in the UK.
  • Proven track record of providing strategic legal counsel to senior management and guiding business decisions in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Demonstrated experience in liaising with private equity investors, including negotiating investment agreements, managing investor relations, and ensuring compliance with investor requirements.
  • Experience navigating due diligence processes with private equity partners.
  • Deep understanding of relevant UK laws and regulations governing the biotechnology industry, including MHRA regulations, intellectual property laws, and data privacy regulations.
  • Excellent negotiation, drafting, and communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with internal and external stakeholders at all levels of the organisation.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment, balancing multiple priorities and deadlines.


For a confidential conversation, please forward your CV to: tom.haussrer@greshamhunt.com