Legal Executive Search for a General Counsel
Background
Our client, a FTSE-listed supply chain solutions provider, engaged us for a confidential and highly targeted legal executive search during a period of significant transformation.
The business had successfully evolved from traditional high street logistics to become the UK’s leading e-commerce fulfilment specialist, with e-fulfilment now representing 70% of their operations. With revenues of £600M and ambitious plans to reach £1B over the course of another 3 years, through organic growth and international acquisitions, the company needed to maintain the strength and stability of its legal function upon the existing GC’s retirement, in circumstances where there was no ‘natural successor’.
The role would report to a C-suite executive and involve leading a small legal team whilst managing all aspects of the group’s legal affairs. The position demanded someone who could support both day-to-day operations and the company’s strategic expansion across Europe, the US, and Asia.
Challenge
Beyond the typical challenges of a confidential replacement search, we needed to find someone who could match the company’s entrepreneurial yet collegiate culture. The business wanted to avoid candidates who might take an overly directive approach, instead seeking someone who could guide the organisation’s legal evolution with a collaborative “we” mindset.
The role demanded extensive commercial contracts experience, given the complexity of multi-year, multi-million pound customer agreements. However, the candidate also needed strong M&A capabilities to support the international acquisition strategy, along with the ability to engage with corporate financiers and navigate PLC governance requirements.
The regional UK location required careful consideration – whilst offering excellent quality of life, we needed someone in the local market who would fully commit to being present and engaged with the business rather than seeking excessive remote working arrangements.
Solution
After detailed discussions with key stakeholders, we developed another comprehensive legal executive search strategy focusing on candidates with 10-12 years’ post-qualification experience, including both top-tier law firm training and substantial in-house experience. Our executive search process particularly targeted individuals with FTSE 250 or listed company backgrounds who could demonstrate the right balance of technical expertise and leadership style.
The successful appointee brought 15 years’ experience, including significant time in a FTSE environment. Their background perfectly matched the brief: extensive experience in complex commercial contracts, proven M&A capabilities, and a track record of supporting international business growth. Crucially, they demonstrated the collaborative approach and leadership style needed to develop the existing legal team member while building strong relationships across the business.
