Senior Manager, Business Affairs
Description
The Role
Join one of the most forward-thinking legal teams in music. We are looking for a skilled and proactive Senior Manager, Business Affairs to play a key role in how Kobalt works with songwriters, artists, and publishing partners around the world.
In this hands-on and dynamic role, you will negotiate and draft agreements with our writers and publishing clients, while advising on a wide range of matters central to Kobalt’s operations. You will collaborate closely with colleagues across legal, creative, and commercial teams in an environment that values innovation, collaboration and personal growth.
We’re seeking a qualified lawyer with strong drafting ability, commercial acumen, and a problem-solving mindset — someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and wants to make a meaningful impact on the global music landscape.
What You’ll Do
- Draft and negotiate publishing proposals, agreements, and amendments with writers and B2B clients.
- Draft and negotiate additional agreements across the publishing division, including sub-publisher and society agreements, NDAs, and ancillary documents.
- Advise and support creative, copyright, client relations and finance teams on deal terms, IP matters, dispute resolution, deal-flow, and legal best practices.
- Prepare and review deal summaries and communicate key points to relevant internal teams.
- Support the wider Business Affairs team with general legal tasks as required.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with external lawyers and partners.
Requirements
What You’ll Bring
Preferred:
- You are a UK-qualified lawyer with 2–5 years PQE (PQE is a guide only; candidates with relevant skills will be considered).
- Experience in an in-house legal team or private practice; music, media, or entertainment experience is a strong plus.
- Excellent drafting, negotiation and communication skills (verbal and written), with the ability to explain complex legal concepts clearly to non-legal stakeholders.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise in a fast-paced, high-volume environment and manage multiple high-priority matters.
- High attention to detail and strong analytical capabilities.
- A collaborative mindset and a genuine passion for music and its creators.
Key Behaviours for Success
Collaboration & Teamwork
You actively participate in cross-functional work, share information openly, and support colleagues across Legal, Creative, Royalties and Commercial teams. You communicate effectively, resolve issues constructively, and contribute positively to team culture.
Commercial Judgement
You understand the broader business context and make balanced, well-reasoned decisions that support Kobalt’s strategic goals. You can identify risks, propose practical solutions, and adapt your approach as commercial priorities evolve.
Ownership & Proactivity
You take initiative, manage your workload independently, and anticipate potential issues before they arise. You follow through on commitments, seek clarity when needed, and continually look for ways to improve processes and outcomes.
How to apply
Apply via link
Kobalt Music Group
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At Kobalt we’ve prioritized creators since we first started in 2000. Our music services and the technology we’ve built helps make the industry more fair and rewarding for artists. We’re trusted by some of the world’s biggest names like Childish Gambino, Akon, Freya Ridings, Paul McCartney and The Red Hot Chili Peppers and represent more than 40% of the top 100 songs and albums in the U.S. and U.K.