Commercial Principal Associate

Commercial Principal Associate

Birmingham or Leeds – Full Time

Our Client

Our client is a well-regarded, modern law firm with a global presence, recognised for deep sector expertise and comprehensive legal services. The firm supports diverse industries and partners with clients at local, national, and international levels, cultivating an inclusive, purpose-driven work culture. In this role, you’ll find a dynamic environment, where a forward-thinking approach encourages career growth and supports a thriving workplace for all.

What to Expect

As a Principal Associate, you’ll work on a wide variety of projects, from regional to international and across practice groups. With a client-centric approach, you’ll have ample opportunities to make a real impact while developing a global mindset and leading initiatives that push innovation forward.

The Team

Based in Birmingham or Leeds, our client’s national commercial team focuses on commercial contracts, rail, privacy, and technology law, delivering services to a range of clients, from local businesses to large multinationals. The team is collaborative and approachable, welcoming a new member who thrives in a supportive and progressive environment.

Role and Key Responsibilities

In this role, you will focus on commercial contracts, advising both private companies and large public-sector bodies. Key responsibilities include:

• Leading Complex Workstreams: Manage a diverse range of commercial agreements, including strategic long-term contracts, outsourcing, facilities management, service agreements, supply chains, and agency and distribution agreements.
• Supervision and Team Support: Mentor junior team members, offering regular guidance to develop their skills and careers.
• Client Relationship Management: Engage proactively with clients to understand their needs, scope projects effectively, and ensure high standards of service and profitability.
• Collaborating Across Specialties: Coordinate with specialists in real estate, corporate, employment, tax, privacy, competition, regulatory, litigation, and IP to provide comprehensive advice.
• Business Development: Participate in pitches, deliver training, organize client events, and engage in networking to support growth and client relationships.

Skills and Experience

To excel in this role, you’ll have a strong foundation in commercial contract law and relevant operational issues. Key skills and experience include:

• Client Relationship Building: Strong interpersonal skills to understand client needs, maintain rapport, and provide customized advice.
• Project Management: The ability to manage and communicate across varying levels, overseeing projects locally and internationally.
• Team Development: Experience supervising and coaching team members, supporting their professional growth with regular feedback.
• Self-Development: Openness to continuous learning and development under the guidance of senior colleagues.
• Workload Management: The ability to balance multiple transactions and client demands.
• Business Acumen: An understanding of profitability metrics and financial management within legal practice.
• Business Development Initiatives: A proactive approach to networking, pitching, and developing client relationships.

Key Competencies

You will bring strong technical skills, excellent drafting abilities, and commercial acumen to this role. Ideal candidates will have trained at a leading firm, with exposure to high-calibre commercial transactions. This position typically requires a minimum of 8 years of post-qualification experience, though candidates with varied experience levels are encouraged to apply.

What’s in it for You?

Our client values fairness, transparency, and alignment with core values, offering:

• Flexible Working Options: Support for agile, hybrid, and remote work arrangements.
• Health and Wellness Benefits: Access to healthcare, dental, and wellness programs.
• Diversity and Inclusion: A culture that champions equality and provides a platform for all to thrive.
• Career Development: Structured training, mentoring, and exposure to cross-functional projects.
• Community Engagement: Opportunities to engage in pro bono work and community initiatives.
• Future Planning: Retirement planning, insurance, and other financial support.

This role offers a pathway for an ambitious legal professional to grow within a globally connected, inclusive, and forward-thinking firm.

Please note our advertisements use PQE/salary levels purely as a guide. However we are happy to consider applications from all candidates who are able to demonstrate the skills necessary to fulfil the role.

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