Associate

An exceptional opportunity has arisen for an Associate or Managing Associate to join a highly regarded Commercial Disputes team in Leeds. This role is perfect for a lawyer who is eager to take on significant responsibility at a pivotal stage in their career. The team is recognised for its expertise across the UK and internationally, offering you the chance to work alongside inspiring colleagues on complex, high-profile matters for blue-chip clients and public sector bodies.

What You'll Do:

As an Associate / Managing Associate you will play an integral part in driving forward both client relationships and the continued success of the practice. You will:

• Collaborate closely with UK and international Partners to actively participate in business development initiatives by identifying new opportunities and fostering long-term client connections.
• Provide expert legal advice on complex commercial disputes involving court proceedings, arbitration, negotiation, mediation, adjudication and other forms of alternative dispute resolution
• Represent major clients including blue-chip companies, public sector authorities and high net worth individuals across multiple sectors including retail, transport, digital, food and drink, health, industrial, automotive, energy, utilities and financial services.
• Engage with formal training programmes—both technical and skills-based—to further your own professional growth as well as that of your colleagues.

You will get to work from home 2 days per week, collaborating with your team the remaining three days. You'll receive a highly competitive salary and overall benefits package, and get the opportunity to mentor and support juniors in the team to best equip them for success in their roles.

What You Bring:

To excel in this market leading team, you will bring proven experience managing sophisticated commercial litigation matters from inception through resolution. You will:

• Have 3+ PQE gained ideally within private practice settings focused on commercial disputes.
• Have demonstrated ability to build rapport with clients from diverse sectors.
• Possess excellent communication skills—both written and verbal—enabling you to explain complex legal concepts clearly to clients or colleagues alike.
• Be comfortable embracing new technologies such as AI tools that can enhance legal service delivery.

The Company:

This organisation stands out for its unwavering commitment to creating an inclusive environment where everyone is valued for their unique perspectives. With offices spanning the UK and international locations, employees benefit from exposure to cross-border matters while enjoying genuine support from knowledgeable colleagues who care about each other’s wellbeing. The firm’s culture is built around improvement, growth and collaboration—delivering results not just for clients but also for those who work here.

You will benefit from clear career progression pathways, access to formal training and mentoring programmes, and the chance to make a real impact by nurturing client relationships and supporting the growth of the practice. If you are looking for an inclusive workplace that values your contribution, encourages continuous learning, and rewards commitment, this is the ideal next step.

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