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- Tasks: Join our dynamic Commercial and IP team, advising clients on exciting legal projects.
- Company: Ashfords, a forward-thinking law firm with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, work-life balance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in technology law while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: 3-6 years PQE in commercial law, with a focus on technology preferred.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and community involvement.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are seeking to recruit a motivated and enthusiastic Associate (ideally with between 3-6 years PQE) to join our well-regarded and growing Commercial and IP team. Based in our Bristol office, you will report directly to and work closely with the Partners, David Varney and Suzie Miles, to play an integral part in the team, working across a full range of non-contentious commercial services.
Our Commercial and IP team specialises in advising companies of varying sizes - from entrepreneurial start-ups to major international organisations - on a wide range of commercial legal issues. As part of this role, you'll be advising a range of clients on drafting, negotiating and reviewing commercial contracts, software, hardware, maintenance and support contracts and goods and services agreements. The role will include getting involved with a wide range of commercial work, including commercial contracts, IP, data protection, cybersecurity, AI, technology and IT.
Your typical caseload will include:
- Technology licensing agreements
- Digital transformation projects
- General commercial agreements
- AI development and licensing agreements
- Digital content creation and distribution contracts
- Data provisions within a broad range of contracts
- Standalone data protection and cybersecurity matters
- Drafting and reviewing SaaS agreements
- Goods and services agreements
- Agency and distribution arrangements
There will also be some work supporting colleagues in our corporate finance team on transactions, notably in the technology sector. Within a busy team, and mutually supportive environment, you will enjoy high quality, high value work from the outset and become an integral part of our team.
As an experienced commercial lawyer, ideally with experience gained at a national or city firm, you will have a proven track record of delivering high quality work, preferably with some focus on data or technology work. As an excellent communicator with proven technical and organisational skills, you'll be accustomed to working under pressure to meet challenging deadlines. Having already gained good general commercial and contract experience, you will be looking to further develop your skills with access to high quality work.
You will be supported by more senior members of our team but you will also be comfortable demonstrating initiative. With a strong eye for detail, you will be used to drafting complex contracts whilst being meticulous in your work, and using your initiative while working as part of a team. You will bring the benefit of your experience in your legal career to date but will still be willing to learn and contribute to our team as you continue to grow and build our practice. Being self-motivated and ambitious, you will already possess the drive to help continue to grow and develop our business.
Our relationship with our clients is paramount, and you will be able to demonstrate your ability to build strong and lasting relationships with clients, and show a genuine commitment to their business needs. Dedicated and enthusiastic, you will have the ability to work efficiently with a commitment to client care and willingness to get involved in business development.
At Ashfords, we believe in more than just doing great work - we believe in building a great place to work. When you join us, you become part of a team where everything we do is underpinned by our four core values: Be Open, Think Team, Make a Difference and Always Grow. These values shape who we are and how we work - they guide our decisions, influence our culture, and drive the way we support our people, clients and communities.
With a clear focus on innovation, community involvement, and supporting a healthy work-life balance, we are committed to building an environment where our people can have a rewarding and meaningful career. Whilst we recognise that every career journey is unique, we will be ambitious for you, giving you the tools, trust, and opportunities to develop your career, your way. Our goal? To help you realise your full potential as part of a forward-thinking team.
We know that our people are at the heart of everything we do and that’s why we’re committed to supporting your wellbeing, growth and work-life balance. Beyond our benefits package, you’ll be encouraged, no matter what your role or career level, to get involved in our Responsible Business programme, where you’ll support initiatives such as charity fundraising, environmental causes and our employee-led diversity and inclusion groups.
Our recruitment process typically involves two stages, which are designed not only to explore your skills and experience but also to give you a real insight into what it's like to work at Ashfords. Throughout the process, our dedicated Talent Attraction team will be here to support you every step of the way. We believe that building a firm with a wide range of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences drives innovation and strengthens our teams, and we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds.
To support your growth, we offer ongoing training and development opportunities to help you reach your full potential so even if you don’t feel you match all the requirements of the job role, we’d still love to hear from you. At Ashfords, we’re committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to succeed.
If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or would like to discuss anything regarding your application, please contact us. For an informal and confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Toby Tompkins, Talent Attraction Manager. Or apply now, and we will be in touch with you as soon as possible.
Associate (3 - 6 PQE) in Bristol employer: Ashfords
Contact Detail:
Ashfords Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate (3 - 6 PQE) in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who might know someone at Ashfords. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company culture and values. Ashfords is all about being open and thinking as a team, so be ready to share how you embody these values in your work.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for commercial law and technology during interviews. Talk about any relevant projects or experiences that highlight your skills in drafting and negotiating contracts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Ashfords.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate (3 - 6 PQE) in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Associate role. Highlight your experience in commercial law, especially in areas like data protection and technology, as these are key for us.
Showcase Your Skills: We want to see your excellent communication and organisational skills shine through. Use specific examples from your past work to demonstrate how you've successfully managed complex contracts or client relationships.
Be Yourself: Let your personality come through in your application. We value authenticity and want to know what makes you tick, so don’t be afraid to share your motivations and ambitions with us.
Apply Through Our Website: For a smooth application process, make sure to apply directly through our website. This way, we can easily track your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ashfords
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of commercial law, especially around contracts and IP. Familiarise yourself with recent developments in technology law, data protection, and cybersecurity. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show your genuine interest in the field.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss specific examples from your previous roles that highlight your skills in drafting and negotiating contracts. Think about challenges you've faced and how you overcame them, particularly in high-pressure situations. This will demonstrate your ability to deliver high-quality work under tight deadlines.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with the interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their team dynamics and client relationships. This shows that you’re not just interested in the role, but also in how you can contribute to their success and fit into their culture.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Initiative
Highlight your ability to work collaboratively while also taking initiative. Share examples of how you've contributed to team projects or taken the lead on tasks. This aligns with their values of 'Think Team' and 'Always Grow', showing that you’re a good cultural fit for the firm.
