Senior Manager, Business Affairs

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.

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.

Interview Process

• Introductory call with a member of our Recruitment Team

• In person interview with the Hiring Team Business Affairs team in London

• Virtual interview with our Business Affairs team in the US

• Virtual cultural based interview with our Creative team in London

We aim to complete the full process within three working weeks. If timelines shift, our Recruitment Team will keep you updated.

Why Choose Us

At Kobalt, we’ve championed creators since 2000. Our technology and music services are built to make the industry more transparent, fair, and rewarding for artists, songwriters, and rights holders. We’re proud to work with influential talents including Phoebe Bridgers, Sam Fender, Paul McCartney, Foo Fighters, Karol G, Young Thug, Kali Uchis, Andrew Watt, and many more.

We thrive on creativity, collaboration and progress. Our values — Music First, Transparent, Tech Powered, Transformative — guide how we work and grow together. We are a community committed to making a meaningful impact on music and technology.

Kobalt is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and identities and are committed to a diverse, inclusive and supportive workplace. If you need adjustments during the hiring process, just let us know.

Important Notice

Applicants must be eligible to work in the United Kingdom. A full DBS check will be completed upon acceptance of an offer. Kobalt is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, colour, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.