In-house Market Overview - Scotland
The in-house market in Scotland has three quite distinct sectoral splits. Edinburgh’s in-house market is dominated by the financial services industry, with the majority of in-house roles arising within banks, insurance companies and fund management. The city is home to the headquarters of some of the UK’s most significant financial institutions and is also one of the largest fund management bases in Europe. Areas of demand tend to therefore reflect this focus with particular demands in Pensions, Funds, Banking, Commercial Contracts, Tax and Trusts.
Glasgow’s economy has traditionally had a stronger focus on commerce and industry. Typically in-house roles arise in IT, Construction, Manufacturing and Pharmaceutical organisations and lawyers with experience of Energy, Projects, IP/IT, Commercial Contracts and renewable energy are all in high demand.
Oil and gas is unquestionably the focus in Aberdeen’s in-house legal market and the city houses the UK headquarters of a number of international oil companies and associated suppliers, attracting internationally qualified lawyers from across a range of jurisdictions.
Whilst more junior roles tend to be filled by local lawyers looking for a move into the sector there are some outstanding senior in-house counsel appointments available (Head of Legal and Sole Legal Counsel), attracting talent from across the globe.
In-house salaries
In-house opportunities rarely arise below the two-year PQE level, therefore the salary details below start at this point.
Base salaries are generally a little lower than practice and overall package is the significant measure. Benefits typically include bonuses, share options, generous pension contribution, company car allowance, medical and life insurance.
| Year of Qualification | Range | Typical |
| 2 years | £36,000- £40,000 | £38,000 |
| 3 years | £39,000-£48,000 | £44,000 |
| 4 years | £41,000-£58,000 | £48,000 |
| 5 years | £44,000-£62,000 | £54,000 |
| 6 years | £47,000-£67,000 | £59,000 |
| 7 years | £50,000-£72,000 | £63,000 |
| 8+ years | £53,000-£92,000 | £70,000 |
| Heads of Legal | £75,000-£170,000 | average £95,000 |
For further information on the legal market and job opportunities in Scotland contact:
Erica MacKinnon
T: 0131 226 0640
E: ericamackinnon@taylorroot.com