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- Tasks: Manage files, interact with clients, and assist senior team members in a dynamic legal environment.
- Company: Birketts LLP is a top 50 UK law firm with over 160 years of heritage and a commitment to excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working, private healthcare, and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Join a market-leading team focused on high-quality work and professional growth in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Seeking an Associate Solicitor with 3-5 years PQE and a strong academic background in commercial disputes.
- Other info: Hybrid working options available; travel expenses covered for team collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About us
Birketts is a full service, UK Top 50 law firm. With a heritage spanning 160 years, we have more than 700 lawyers and legal professionals based in Bristol, Cambridge, Chelmsford, Ipswich, London, Norwich and Sevenoaks. We advise businesses, government and public sector organisations and individuals in the UK and internationally across four principal practice groups: Real Estate, Corporate Services, Dispute Resolution and Private Client.
We are defined by our Next Level Law proposition. We work with our clients as a proactive partner, horizon scanning and thinking ahead to the changes, challenges or opportunities that they may face.
Next Level Law is also applied to our people. Our collegiate culture means everyone is encouraged to achieve their next level in everything they do. Â RollOnFriday recently ranked us as the 5th best law firm to work at in 2024.
With our ambition to succeed, comes a strong desire to make a positive contribution to the communities we serve, and we are committed to delivering the objectives set out in our ESG strategy. Diversity plays an integral part in all that we do, with female partners comprising 40% of our partnership.
The team you will join
The Commercial & Technology Team comprises of 6 partners and around 20 lawyers, operating across the firm’s seven offices. We advise clients on a broad spectrum of commercial and technology matters, supporting businesses from start-ups to multinational corporations. Our work spans both day-to-day operational contracts and complex, strategic projects.
Examples of the work we undertake include:
- Commercial Contracts: Drafting and negotiating supply, distribution, agency, and outsourcing agreements to help businesses manage risk and maintain strong commercial relationships.
- Technology Transactions: Advising on software licensing, SaaS agreements, cloud services, and IT infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance and commercial viability.
- Data Protection & Privacy: Guiding clients through GDPR compliance, DSARs, data sharing arrangements, and international data transfers.
- Intellectual Property: Protecting and exploiting IP rights through licensing, collaboration agreements, and brand protection strategies.
- E-commerce & Digital Business: Supporting online platforms with terms of use, consumer law compliance, and digital marketing arrangements.
- Regulatory & Compliance: Advising on sector-specific regulations, including technology standards and consumer protection laws.
- Strategic Projects: Assisting with joint ventures, collaborations, and technology-driven business transformations.
Our team combines deep sector knowledge with practical, commercially focused advice to help clients navigate the evolving legal and technological landscape.
The work you will be doing
We are looking to recruit an Associate into the Commercial (Data Protection) Team, with approximately 3 to 5 years of PQE, who has the drive and commitment to assist Birketts’ in the continued growth and development of our data protection capabilities and to become an essential member of the Commercial & Technology team.]
As a Data Protection Solicitor, you will advise clients on UK GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018, and related privacy and electronics communications laws. You’ll support businesses in developing data protection policies, managing compliance efforts, responding to data incidents, and conducting training—working within a commercially-driven and fast-paced environment.
This is an excellent opportunity for motivated and ambitious individuals to join a successful and friendly Commercial & Technology Team, in a growing firm which enjoys an excellent reputation, and with excellent career progression opportunities.
What we are looking for
- A commercially-minded approach – balancing pragmatic legal advice with business objectives.
- Capacity to act autonomously and collaboratively within client teams.
- Enthusiasm for shaping data protection strategies and privacy-by-design practices.
- Commitment to continuous professional development and staying ahead of legislative changes.
- Professional certifications (e.g., IAPP CIPP/E) are desirable, though not mandatory.
Inclusivity and Culture
At Birketts, our culture is driven by ambition and a commitment to positively impact all the communities we serve. We are dedicated to the success, development, and wellbeing of our colleagues, helping them achieve their goals and seize the opportunities that come with our growth. Alongside a flexible and inclusive work environment, we offer the following core benefits:
- 25 days holiday (FTE) plus Bank HolidaysÂ
- Long Service holiday award – 1 extra week every 10 years continuous service
- Private Healthcare with BUPA (offered after probation is passed)
- Scottish Widows Pension Scheme (5% employer / 5% Employee)
- Staff Profit Share and Individual Performance Bonus SchemeÂ
- Salary sacrifice (Pensions, Staff Profit Share)
- Life Assurance – 4 x salary / Permanent Health Insurance
- Paid CSR Day
- Enhanced Maternity/Paternity Leave
- Subsidised gym membership
- Electric car scheme
- Agile/Hybrid Working Policy
- Dress for your Day Policy
https://recognition-reward-benefits/
Birketts is a flexible business which has embraced a hybrid working model where our colleagues enjoy a mix of home and office working. We welcome applications from people looking for flexible, agile, and part-time roles and we are happy to explore your preferred working patterns as part of your application.Â
Please note that this job profile is not an exhaustive list of duties but merely an outline of the key components of the role. You may be required by your line manager to take on additional responsibilities when requested.
Birketts is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our policy is unequivocal: we do not tolerate discrimination based on age, disability, sex, race, religion or belief, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, or sexual orientation.
We pride ourselves on being an inclusive organisation that actively promotes equality of opportunity for all, valuing the right mix of talent, skills, and potential. We welcome applications from a diverse range of candidates, and selection for roles is based solely o
Associate employer: Birketts LLP
Contact Detail:
Birketts LLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Birketts' core values and their approach to Next Level Law. Understanding their commitment to proactive client relationships and community contributions will help you align your responses during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Birketts, especially those in the CLDR team. They can provide valuable insights into the firm's culture and expectations, which can be beneficial for your application and interview preparation.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on recent developments in commercial litigation and dispute resolution. Being knowledgeable about current trends and landmark cases will demonstrate your genuine interest and expertise in the field during discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider attending legal networking events or seminars related to commercial law. This not only enhances your knowledge but also allows you to meet potential colleagues and show your commitment to business development, a key aspect of the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, particularly in commercial disputes and client relationship management. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements that align with the Associate role at Birketts.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your understanding of Birketts' values and culture. Mention your interest in their Next Level Law proposition and how you can contribute to their growth and client relationships.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: In your application, emphasise your technical skills and attention to detail. Provide examples of complex cases you've handled and how you successfully resolved disputes, as this is crucial for the role.
Highlight Business Development Experience: Since the role involves business development initiatives, mention any relevant experience you have in writing articles, attending networking events, or other activities that demonstrate your ability to attract and retain clients.
How to prepare for a job interview at Birketts LLP
✨Research Birketts LLP
Before your interview, take the time to understand Birketts' history, values, and areas of expertise. Familiarise yourself with their Next Level Law proposition and how it applies to both clients and employees. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the firm.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
As an Associate Solicitor, you'll need strong technical skills. Be prepared to discuss your experience with complex commercial disputes, enforcement of restrictive covenants, and shareholder disputes. Bring examples of your previous work that highlight your attention to detail and high standards.
✨Demonstrate Client-Focused Approach
Birketts values a client-focused approach, so be ready to share instances where you've successfully built relationships with clients. Discuss how you handle client interactions and your strategies for maintaining those relationships, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Business Development Questions
The role involves business development initiatives, so think about how you can contribute. Prepare to discuss any past experiences in writing articles, attending networking events, or other business development activities. Show your enthusiasm for growing the firm's client base.