At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our legal team to advise on contentious construction matters and supervise external solicitors.
- Company: Be part of a dynamic company with a strong UK presence and a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options, flexible hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: This role offers diverse challenges and the chance to make a real impact in construction law.
- Qualifications: 3+ years PQE preferred; experience in dispute resolution and construction law is a plus.
- Other info: Part-time candidates are welcome; work from home flexibility available.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Senior In-House Lawyer (Contentious)
Location: Watford (Hybrid working)
Contract Type: (Permanent)
In this role you will take on a varied role predominantly advising on contentious construction matters and supervising external solicitors.
The role sits within an established legal team (including general counsel) which serves the UK division of the company.
Scope of role will include:
- Advising on and conduct of contentious construction matters including adjudications (experience in relation to payment disputes, breach of contract disputes, cladding and/or PFI disputes would be an advantage)
- Providing legal support to our project and delivery teams including drafting correspondence and advising on claims issues
- Assisting with training and know how within the business
- Supervising external solicitors
Candidates must have significant experience gained within an in house or private practice of the above (some in house experience in the sector is preferred but not essential) and be familiar with all forms of dispute resolution, especially adjudication, court proceedings, arbitration and ADR. It is anticipated that candidates will have a minimum PQE 3+ years but candidates with less will be considered if they can demonstrate the requisite experience.
Candidates may also be expected to provide occasional support on the non-contentious/transactional side, and familiarity with JCT and NEC suites would be an advantage.
The position is predominately based in our UK head office in Watford with some scope for home working. This is a full-time role but will consider someone who wants to work part time (min. 4 days).
Lawyer employer: VINCI Building UK
Contact Detail:
VINCI Building UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lawyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the specific contentious construction matters mentioned in the job description, such as adjudications and payment disputes. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to speak confidently about your relevant experience during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the legal field, especially those who have experience in-house or in contentious construction. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the role and may even lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with various forms of dispute resolution, particularly adjudication and arbitration. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated these processes in your previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Since the role involves supervising external solicitors, think about your leadership and mentoring experiences. Be prepared to discuss how you can effectively manage and guide external teams to achieve successful outcomes.
We think you need these skills to ace Lawyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Senior In-House Lawyer position. Understand the key responsibilities, such as advising on contentious construction matters and supervising external solicitors.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasize your experience in contentious construction matters, especially any work related to adjudications, payment disputes, or breach of contract disputes. Mention your familiarity with dispute resolution methods like arbitration and ADR.
Tailor Your Application: Customize your application documents to reflect the specific requirements of the role. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate that you meet the qualifications, such as PQE and experience in both in-house and private practice.
Showcase Soft Skills: In addition to legal expertise, highlight your ability to provide legal support to project teams and your experience in training and knowledge sharing within a business context. This will show that you can contribute to the team beyond just legal advice.
How to prepare for a job interview at VINCI Building UK
✨Showcase Your Relevant Experience
Make sure to highlight your experience with contentious construction matters, especially any work related to adjudications, payment disputes, or breach of contract disputes. Be prepared to discuss specific cases you've handled and the outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Your Legal Knowledge
Familiarize yourself with various forms of dispute resolution, including adjudication, court proceedings, arbitration, and ADR. During the interview, confidently discuss how you have applied this knowledge in past roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about how you would advise project teams on claims issues or handle disputes, and be ready to articulate your thought process.
✨Emphasize Team Collaboration
Since the role involves supervising external solicitors and working within a legal team, highlight your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've worked with others to achieve successful outcomes in previous positions.