Interim Franchising / Retail Lawyer
London | Fully Remote
3+ month interim assignment (covering whilst a permanent hire is underway)
Mid–Senior level
MLA is working on an interim Legal & Compliance opportunity with a fast‑growing, international consumer / D2C business operating across franchising, retail and complex supply chains.
This role is ideal for an experienced commercial lawyer who enjoys working close to the business in a dynamic, multi‑market environment.
The Role
You’ll provide legal support across offline retail and supply chain operations, advising on franchising frameworks, retail store matters, competition law and ESG‑linked commercial contracts. The role reports into the Group General Counsel and partners closely with teams across Operations, Procurement, Commercial and Sustainability.
Key Responsibilities
* Advising on franchise structures and governance, including drafting and negotiating franchise agreements
* Supporting retail operations, including store agreements, regulatory compliance and operational matters across multiple jurisdictions
* Advising on consumer protection law, complaint handling and disputes
* Providing guidance on competition and antitrust law, particularly around distribution and supply chain models
* Drafting and negotiating supplier and vendor contracts, including compliance and ESG provisions
* Managing legal risk, contract performance and external counsel
* Delivering commercial, pragmatic legal advice to fast‑moving business teams
About You
* England & Wales qualified lawyer
* 5+ years’ experience in commercial / competition / in‑house legal roles
* Background in franchising, retail, FMCG or consumer businesses
* Strong knowledge of EU competition and antitrust law
* Experience advising on consumer law and multi‑market retail operations
* Confident drafting and negotiating complex commercial agreements
* ESG / supply chain exposure highly beneficial
* Fluent English essential (German or French a bonus)
If you’re an interim lawyer with franchising or retail experience and available for a fully remote assignment, apply for more information.