Associate - Commercial Litigation

We are looking for an ambitious and talented Associate to join our busy and growing commercial litigation team. This new position is ideal for someone with around 1-2 years' PQE (although we may consider those with more or less PQE in exceptional circumstances), gained in a City firm or leading national or regional practice. This is a full time position.

The Commercial Litigation Team

There are currently 4 partners and 9 other lawyers in the team. We are one of the largest contentious law practices in the South East outside London and are rated in the top tiers of Chambers and Legal 500 and as a National Leading Practice in Chambers.

We handle a wide range of contentious work for a variety of clients, from individuals and owner managed businesses to household name PLCs. A large proportion of our work is international in nature, involving close collaboration with law firms in other jurisdictions. As well as handling complex High Court litigation and international arbitration we provide strategic advice on claims avoidance and risk management.

We are committed to investment in our team and have several solicitor advocates within the team as well as members of CiArb and qualified mediators. First-class support and learning and development opportunities are provided, and early responsibility is offered. The successful candidate will often work on cases directly with a partner and take responsibility for progressing cases, as well as working as part of a larger team.

Qualifications and Experience

We are looking for someone with drive and enthusiasm for a broad diet of commercial dispute resolution work. Strong experience of commercial contract disputes will be a definite advantage, as will an appetite for business development. The successful candidate is likely to:

• Be a strong team player with good inter-personal skills;
• Have good academics and high-quality experience - typically with a City or leading national/regional practice;
• Possess the ability to communicate concisely and with confidence;
• Have excellent technical ability, drafting skills and attention to detail;
• Be highly motivated and reliable;
• Be able to work both independently, running appropriate cases with minimum supervision and as part of a large team;
• Demonstrate commercial awareness;
• Be confident and personable when interacting directly with clients and provide a high level of client service; and
• Be willing to take an active role and interest in business development within both the team and across the wider firm.

The Opportunity

• Pensions Scheme (5% employer contribution)
• Private medical insurance
• Permanent health insurance
• Life assurance
• Receive either the sum of £750 per annum as a travel allowance or reimbursement of car parking expenses via a pay as you go card at a local carpark (likely to be Farnham Road carpark)
• Travel - option to apply for an interest free loan for a season ticket or parking permit
• Enhanced maternity/paternity pay (after sufficient service)
• Critical illness insurance
• Cycle to work schemes
• Give as you earn
• Discounted gym memberships and shopping
• Profit share and discretionary bonus schemes

Diversity & Inclusion

We have a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion (D&I). This drives a strategy which focuses on constant promotion of an inclusive culture that encourages everyone to realise their full potential and be themselves at work. Previously we have been shortlisted for "Best D&I Initiative" at The HR Awards and for "Best Talent and Inclusion Initiative" at The Lawyer Awards.

We offer excellent long-term career and development opportunities.