Contracts Lawyer - Illustrated Book Publishers, London

Great opportunity to join this prestigious, illustrated book publishing house as their Publishing Lawyer with responsibility for managing the company's contracts process, providing legal advice, advising on commercial terms and handling negotiations including international rights as well as film and TV options.

This would suit a qualified lawyer with experience in copyright law and book publishing, a proven track record of negotiating, drafting and reviewing all types of publishing agreements, and a thorough understanding of the entire book publishing process from commissioning stage through to publication.

Reporting into the Head of Legal, you will be line managing two junior contracts team members as well as acting as a key link between the Editorial, Production, International Rights and Comms Departments.

In addition to playing a key role in supporting and advising the business on all contractual and related matters, you will also have responsibility for:

• Overseeing all publishing contracts, including management of the contracts workflow process
• Providing legal advice, and where necessary, handling contractual disputes
• Advising on commercial terms and opportunities and handling negotiations as appropriate;
• Developing and rolling out new template agreements, terms and conditions, policies and procedures, supporting the business on its legal requirements;
• Advising the Picture Research department on copyright matters;
• Line management of a small team

Experience required:

• Qualified lawyer (essential)
• Comprehensive understanding of the entire book publishing process (essential)
• Substantial experience working in book publishing (ideally illustrated books)
• Strong knowledge of publishing agreements and copyright law
• Strong drafting and negotiation skills with authors, literary agents, publishers, and business owners
• Ability to think strategically and to exercise sound, independent judgment
• Ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with directors, the senior management team and in-house staff at all levels

The client is hoping to start interviews immediately so please apply straight away if interested