This is the top job in the legal department in a government organisation or corporation. The position demands an extremely high level of experience and the general counsel is often directly answerable to the chief executive or board of a company. The job broadly involves making sure that an organisation or firm is constantly in compliance with the law
The role requires an in-depth knowledge of all that is happening throughout the organisation. General counsels are often required to spot problems, not just legal, on all levels of the business before they happen so that the company’s image, employees and bottom line are protected
Essential to the job is a strong personality. It is the incumbent’s number one priority to look after the interests of the organisation, even if this means clashing with top executives. Excellent communication skills are also a prerequisite, as is some form of qualification in law. This individual will have to deal with a wide range of individuals as well as other representatives from the legal profession
Because this position requires such a high level of experience and commitment, a salary of between £50,000 and £250,000 per year may be expected; indeed, remuneration may often rise a great deal higher.