Senior Legal Counsel Haarlem • SIRE Life Sciences

The Company
Our client is one of the global leaders in biopharmaceuticals and generics with the drive to provide quality medicines to improve the lives of patients all over the world. With over 100 years of experience in the field, they have curated a wide range of pharmaceutical products used by millions every day.

Role description
As a Senior Legal Counsel, you will temporarily take over the responsibilities of the General Counsel for the Northwest Hub, ensuring legal continuity during a sabbatical period. This senior-level position involves providing strategic legal advice, managing high-risk matters, and collaborating with leadership teams across multiple countries. You'll work closely with an experienced in-house legal counsel to maintain seamless legal operations throughout the region.

Responsibilities

• Deliver expert legal advice across commercial, regulatory, and compliance areas
• Lead on strategic transactions, high-value contracts, and corporate governance issues
• Ensure continuity in legal support during the year-end business period
• Serve as a legal partner to commercial leaders and functional heads
• Collaborate with in-house counsel on daily operations and key legal decisions
• Provide structure and guidance during complex negotiations
• Align legal activities with internal policies and global legal standards
• Build relationships with stakeholders across Benelux and Nordic markets

• Qualified lawyer (Dutch law preferred, EU legal qualifications also welcome)
• Extensive post-qualified experience, preferably in pharma or life sciences
• Strong business acumen and pragmatic decision-making approach
• Experience advising in international, matrixed organizations
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Comfortable stepping into a leadership role with minimal onboarding

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