At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team providing legal advice to public sector clients on high-profile projects.
- Company: Birketts LLP is a top UK law firm with over 160 years of experience and a commitment to community impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 25-30 days holiday, private healthcare, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Flexible roles available; we value diversity and promote an inclusive workplace.
- Why this job: Be part of a leading team ranked Tier 1 in Legal 500, making a real difference in public services.
- Qualifications: Seeking commercial lawyers with at least 2 years PQE, strong contract skills, and a passion for public service.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 42000 £ per year.
Associate / Senior Associate - Public Sector (1334)
Join to apply for the Associate / Senior Associate - Public Sector (1334) role at Birketts LLP
Associate / Senior Associate - Public Sector (1334)
6 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants
Join to apply for the Associate / Senior Associate - Public Sector (1334) role at Birketts LLP
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. 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 department
Birketts’ Public Sector Team is recruiting for a highly motivated and forward thinking Associate or Senior Associate to join our growing team on a full or part time permanent basis. You will join a nationally recognised, highly successful, leading Public Sector Team, which has clients throughout the UK. The team has enjoyed substantial growth and we now require extra resource to take forward our ambitious plans for the future.
Birketts’ Public Sector Team is ranked Tier 1 in Legal 500 and is appointed as legal services provider on a number of public sector frameworks.
We act for public sector clients nationally including in central and local government, executive agencies, non-departmental public bodies, police authorities, educational institutions and health authorities. The team delivers commercially focused advice in respect of complex, innovative and high profile strategic projects, as well as working collaboratively with our public sector clients to support them in the delivery of their day to day services. We pride ourselves on delivering high quality legal services which add value to public sector organisations, generate income and support regeneration.
Our lawyers come from a range of backgrounds, including from both the public and private sectors and work closely with our specialist teams, such as Property, Planning, Construction, Litigation and Social Housing.
Accountabilities
Key accountabilities will include:
- Acting on a broad range of commercial work for public sector clients.
- Depending upon experience, acting in relation to the delivery of strategic advice on high profile projects, as well as acting on mainstream public sector matters to support the wider practice.
- Drafting and negotiating a range of documentation including contracts and frameworks for a wide range of services and goods, shared service and collaboration agreements between public bodies.
- Subject to experience, providing procurement advice in relation to the procurement of services and goods.
- Subject to experience, advising on a range of issues including local authority powers and other public law matters.
- Depending upon experience and seniority, overseeing the training of junior lawyers and providing support and guidance, as well as providing technical support to the wider team.
- You will have the opportunity to develop and grow your practice and be actively involved in the growth and development of the Public Sector Team.
This list is not exhaustive and the duties may vary from time to time, according to circumstances.
The candidate
We are seeking a commercial lawyer with at least 2 years PQE experience, gained within the public or private sector, with a strong and proven ability to deal with commercial contracts/agreements and meet the demands of a varied caseload.
Location:
We are happy to consider any of these office locations: Cambridge, Chelmsford, Ipswich or London
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a dynamic market leading team dealing with high quality work, where as Associate / Senior Associate you will cover a broad range of non-contentious commercial work for our ambitious public sector clients and their partners.
You will join a progressive and highly supportive team who are passionate about delivering high quality legal services to the public sector.
The successful candidate will be able to think commercially and analytically, so as to provide accurate and practical advice with an ability to think clearly under pressure.
Knowledge and experience of procurement law would be advantageous but not essential. Similarly, experience of public law would be advantageous but not essential.
The role requires excellent inter-personal, written, oral communication and negotiation skills.
The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic, focused and flexible, with a strong desire to further develop their practice with public sector clients
The candidate will have excellent client relationship skills and will also be expected to play an active role in the further development of our Public Sector practice and to focus on growing new relationships, as well as providing a high level of service to existing clients.
Birketts has designed a career structure that helps us develop, retain and reward talented people. Promotion is based on assessment of your performance, competency and achievements. Our Talent Management Framework (TMF) will see you joining as an Associate or Senior Associate (depending upon experience) with the opportunity to be promoted in accordance with the TMF.
Equal opportunities
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 Holidays (rising with service up to a maximum of 30 days). Senior Associate - 30 days holiday
- Long Service holiday award – 1 extra week every 10 years continuous service
- Private Healthcare with BUPA (offered after probation is passed)
- Staff Profit Share and Individual Performance Bonus Scheme
- 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
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.
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 on individual merit.
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#J-18808-LjbffrAssociate / Senior Associate - Public Sector (1334) in Chelmsford employer: Birketts LLP
Birketts LLP is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment where ambition and professional growth are at the forefront. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, the firm provides generous benefits including up to 30 days of holiday, private healthcare, and a flexible hybrid working model, all while fostering a culture of inclusivity and collaboration. Joining Birketts means being part of a nationally recognised Public Sector Team that values your contributions and encourages you to achieve your next level in your legal career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate / Senior Associate - Public Sector (1334) in Chelmsford
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
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Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Birketts LLP, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate / Senior Associate - Public Sector (1334) in Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Birketts LLP, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Birketts LLP and the specific role of Associate / Senior Associate - Public Sector (1334). Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Birketts LLP’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Birketts LLP
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Birketts LLP.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Birketts LLP.
