Senior Associate / Legal Director / Partner
This role is perfect for those who are passionate about commercial law, eager to take on significant responsibility, and ready to shape the future of a growing department. You'll be joining a team that values you, encourages business development, and offers genuine autonomy over your practice. With a strong client base—including well-known brands—this position provides a platform for you to make a real impact, whether you aspire to become a Senior Associate, Legal Director, or Partner.
What You'll Do:
Coming on board, you will play an integral part in shaping the direction of a growing and thriving commercial department. Your day-to-day responsibilities will include:
- Managing complex contract negotiations for major retail clients, advising on data audits and privacy compliance projects using both in-house resources and external consultants.
- Acting as a trusted advisor to clients ranging from fast-growth start-ups to established global brands in the retail and leisure sectors.
- Driving business development activities by leveraging your network and technical expertise to attract new clients and expand existing relationships within key industry sectors.
- Mentoring junior lawyers and paralegals within the team by sharing knowledge, supporting their professional growth, and fostering an inclusive learning culture.
What You Bring:
There is an opportunity for someone to join at either Senior Associate, Legal Director or Partnership level, and those who are looking for a development role and step up will be considered off the bat. You’ll ideally have:
- 6+ PQE in commercial law with proven expertise in data protection, technology contracts, franchising agreements, distribution agency work, or intellectual property matters
- A demonstrable track record of successful business development activities including building client relationships, and winning new instructions through networking or referrals.
- Strong interpersonal skills enabling you to connect effectively with colleagues across departments as well as external stakeholders such as consultants or industry partners.
The Company:
The firm’s reputation is built upon deep sector expertise and close-knit teams led by approachable Partners who value input from all levels of seniority. Employees benefit from flexible working - with 3 days in the office and 2 from home, competitive bonus scheme, regular social groups (including run club and book club) and only 4.5 chargeable hours per day. There is also an office space in Chesire which offers free parking if you had a preference to be based there.
As the group expands into new markets there are increasing opportunities for ambitious lawyers seeking fresh challenges without sacrificing work-life balance or personal wellbeing. The culture here is inclusive: everyone’s voice matters whether discussing strategy at partner meetings or brainstorming ways to improve client service during informal catch-ups.
How to Apply:
Apply now or for more information, feel free to contact Senior Consultant Jess Vernal on jess.vernal@robertwalters.com or 07823647177.
Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates
About the job
Contract Type: Permanent
Specialism: Legal
Focus: Commercial Law
Industry: Legal
Salary: £85,000 - £150,000 per annum + Bonus + Benefits
Workplace Type: Hybrid
Experience Level: Senior Management
Location: Manchester
FULL_TIMEJob Reference: VTETGO-75929FEF
Date posted: 22 July 2025
Consultant: Jess Vernal
northern-west legal/commercial-law 2025-07-22 2025-09-20 legal Manchester Greater Manchester GB GBP 85000 150000 150000 YEAR Robert Walters https://www.robertwalters.co.uk https://www.robertwalters.co.uk/content/dam/robert-walters/global/images/logos/web-logos/square-logo.png true