Location
Based at our office in Belfast, Northern Ireland, or fully remote anywhere in the UK. Hybrid working options available at Belfast or London offices.

Hours
Full time, immediate start for a 3 month fixed term maternity cover contract.

Salary
Salaried position (competitive salary details available upon application).

About the Role
The Financial Times is seeking a Solicitor qualified commercial contracts lawyer to join our highly regarded in-house legal team on a fixed term maternity cover basis. You will provide dedicated legal support to key business divisions including corporate subscriptions, licensing, global conferences and events, thought leadership, and specialist titles. This role offers the flexibility to work fully remotely or in a hybrid model from Belfast or London offices.

Key responsibilities include advising on contracts with clients across diverse industries and jurisdictions, negotiating contract terms, providing commercial and responsive legal advice, managing contracts based on standard templates with potential extensive negotiation, updating templates to reflect evolving business needs, delivering training to business partners, and utilising leading legal AI tools to streamline workflows and enhance legal service delivery.

This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a globally recognised news organisation known for its authority, integrity, and commitment to quality journalism, within a warm and collaborative culture that supports growth and career development.

Experience
Solicitor qualified in the UK with strong commercial contract drafting skills and legal knowledge, including copyright, licensing, indemnity, and liability issues. Experience advising on contracts across multiple industries and jurisdictions. Previous in-house legal experience is desirable.

Demonstrated commercial awareness with the ability to align legal advice to strategic business objectives. Experience or strong interest in utilising advanced legal AI tools to improve efficiency is advantageous.

About you
Highly organised, flexible, and able to prioritise effectively while keeping colleagues and managers informed. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to build effective relationships within the legal team and wider business. A forward-thinking approach to legal practice and a collaborative mindset.

Qualifications
Qualified Solicitor in the UK. No additional qualifications required beyond professional legal accreditation, but a positive attitude and willingness to embrace innovation and technology are essential.