Manager & Counsel

The General Counsel’s Organization (GCO) is American Express’ legal and government affairs departments, along with the Corporate Secretary's Office (which is responsible for interactions with our Board of Directors). They are responsible for protecting and strengthening American Express through world-class expertise and strategic advice that helps our business partners manage risk, identify opportunities, and deliver on the Company's promise of exceptional products and services. 

This Manager & Counsel position will provide legal support to American Express’s Global Commercial Services (GCS), the Bank Partnerships and Joint Ventures business in the EMEA region.

• Provide legal support and pragmatic legal advice to business clients across a range of commercial and regulatory matters, primarily within the EMEA region
• Draft, review and negotiate a wide range of international commercial agreements and related communications, using approved templates and processes
• Support the GCS business in relation to customer incentive contracts, amendments and renewals, including advising on contract structure and sequencing
• Provide legal support on strategic marketing initiatives and related agreements
• Advise on new product and service development initiatives from a legal and regulatory perspective, escalating material risk or novelty where required
• Help ensure that management and the wider organisation understand and comply with applicable legal and regulatory requirements
• Support the GCO team in identifying, assessing and managing legal risks, and contribute to the development and maintenance of legal guidance and playbooks
• Monitor and support analysis of relevant legislative and regulatory developments across EMEA markets, working with senior counsel to assess potential impact on the business
• Instruct and manage external counsel on discrete matters, ensuring quality and cost‑effective legal advice in line with agreed budgets
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues across GCO, Compliance, Risk, Pricing and other stakeholders to support business objectives in a controlled and consistent manner

• A lawyer qualified in England and Wales, or in a common law or EU jurisdiction, ideally with relevant professional experience at a reputable law firm or international company.
• Proven experience + PQE
• Fluent in English. Additional European language a plus
• Solid drafting, research and negotiation/influencing skills
• Solid analytical skills
• Solid understanding of general principles of law applicable to commercial practice as well as experience in areas of law applicable to payments industry
• Understanding of regulatory matters generally and areas applicable to payments industry
• Ability to work under time pressure to meet tight deadlines and clients’ expectations
• Some international travel may be required.

Attributes:

• Strategic thinker with good business understanding 
• Skilled at effective multi-tasking - able to manage and prioritize a wide variety of matters and clients to high levels of client satisfaction
• Excellent communication skills, both orally and in writing - able to communicate clearly, concisely, effectively and persuasively with internal and external clients and senior management
• Adaptability - strong team player who thrives on collaboration and understands the individual part they play in the success of a cross- functional team
• Self-sufficiency – inquisitive, takes initiative and owns their learning and development, comfortable working with minimal direct supervision
• Prepared to take the lead and make appropriate recommendations to middle and – if required – senior management. This role requires someone with credibility and presence
• Excellent relationship management and people skills – ability to adapt communication style to a broad mix of people and personalities. Ability to form and maintain strong working relationships
• Willingness to learn and grow and to leverage experience gained in this position to expand skill set for future career growth at American Express 
• Ability to respond under time pressure to business issues with executable solutions clearly linked to business objectives
• Process-management skills - ability to help identify and implement improvements in work process to enhance efficiency and productivity
• Commitment to integrity

Employment eligibility to work with American Express in the UK is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions. 

At American Express, our culture is built on a 175-year history of innovation, shared values and Leadership Behaviors, and an unwavering commitment to back our customers, communities, and colleagues. From delivering differentiated products to providing world-class customer service, we operate with a strong risk mindset, ensuring we continue to uphold our brand promise of trust, security, and service.

As part of Team Amex, you’ll experience our powerful backing with comprehensive support for your holistic well-being and many opportunities to learn new skills, develop as a leader, and grow your career. Here, your voice and ideas matter, your work makes an impact, and together, you will help us define the future of American Express.