At Hilton Foods, transformation isn’t a buzzword — it’s our next chapter.
We’re a global powerhouse in food manufacturing, known for unmatched quality, pioneering innovation, and an unwavering commitment to our customers and consumers. But our ambition doesn’t stop on the production line.
Hilton Foods is a leading international multi-category food producer, serving customers and retail partners across the world with high quality meat, seafood, vegan and vegetarian foods and meals. We are a business of over 7,300 employees, operating from 21 technologically advanced food processing, packing and logistics facilities that serve over 19 markets in Europe, Asia Pacific and North America. For over thirty years, our business has been built on long-term partnerships with our customers and suppliers, many forged over several decades, and together we target long-term, sustainable growth and shared value.
We are delighted to be building a strong internal Group Legal Team to support our transformation.
PURPOSE OF ROLE
This Legal Counsel role is to provide strategic and practical legal advice across the business, manage complex commercial matters, and support senior leadership in mitigating risk while enabling growth. The Legal Counsel shall provide support to the Group Head of Legal in strategic projects across the organisation.
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES
* Draft, review, and negotiate complex commercial agreements, including supplier, customer, technology, and licensing contracts.
* Provide guidance on contractual risk and ensure alignment with business objectives.
* Monitor and interpret relevant laws and regulations impacting the business.
* Develop and implement compliance frameworks and policies
* Partner with senior stakeholders to provide pragmatic, business-focused legal advice and solutions.
* Contribute to strategic projects, including M&A, joint ventures, and other corporate transactions.
* Advise internal stakeholders on legal issues relating to commercial operations, regulatory and legislative compliance, and risk mitigation.
* Conduct legal research and prepare clear, practical advice.
* Liaise with external counsel where necessary and manage associated costs.
* Take lead on streamlining and standardisation of group legal documentation
* Management of IP portfolio.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
* Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales (or equivalent jurisdiction)
* Approximately 5 years PQE gained in a reputable law firm or in-house environment.
* Experience in advising senior stakeholders and managing external counsel.
* Excellent drafting and negotiation skills.
* Strong analytical and problem-solving ability.
* Ability to work autonomously and manage multiple priorities.
* Commercial mindset with strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
* Strong analytical and problem-solving ability.
* Ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly and concisely.
* Strong research and organisational skills.
* Attention to detail