At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the CMA’s litigation function and manage a high-performing team of litigators.
- Company: Join the UK's principal competition and consumer protection authority, the CMA.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive pension scheme, generous leave, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Commitment to equality, diversity, and career development for all employees.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-profile legal cases in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified lawyer with strong litigation experience and leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 90000 € per year.
About us
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is the UK’s principal competition and consumer protection authority, using a wide and growing range of powers to deliver high‑profile, complex work in the public interest. For litigators, the CMA offers a uniquely varied and challenging environment, with regular litigation in the Competition Appeal Tribunal, the High Court, Court of Appeal, Supreme Court and various other courts and tribunals. You’ll undertake cutting‑edge, high‑profile work spanning merger control, digital markets, competition and consumer enforcement, markets and subsidy advice.
Your role
Reporting to the General Counsel, you will share senior responsibility for leading and managing the CMA’s litigation function, providing senior oversight of all civil litigation and strategic advice to senior decision makers. You will lead the CMA’s litigation team of approximately 30 litigators and have direct line management responsibility for four Litigation Directors, while working closely with Senior Legal Directors and other Executive and Senior Directors. As a key member of the Legal Service Senior Leadership Team, you will also contribute to the leadership and development of the wider CMA Legal Service (around 150 lawyers and other professionals).
What you’ll do
- Lead the CMA’s litigation function, accountable for civil litigation and high‑quality, robust legal advice on complex and high‑profile matters.
- Oversee delivery and resources, ensuring effective allocation, budget oversight, financial reporting, and timely, strategic advice across the CMA’s work.
- Build and lead a high‑performing team, developing litigators, fostering innovation and integrated working, and managing key external relationships while representing the CMA.
About you
You will be a fully qualified lawyer entitled to practise in England and Wales, with outstanding litigation experience (including some competition law, public law and/or consumer protection law), strong strategic judgement, and the credibility to influence senior stakeholders and external counterparts. You will bring excellent leadership and people management skills, with a clear commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
The benefits
Your benefits package will include a competitive contributory pension scheme and generous annual leave, plus opportunities for flexible and hybrid working. The package also includes childcare benefits, season ticket, and bicycle loans. The Civil Service is committed to becoming the most inclusive employer in the UK and we want to maximise the potential of everyone who chooses to work for us. In return for your dedication, you will enjoy our commitment to your career and development.
Closing date: 2 June 2026.
Senior Litigation Director employer: Competition and Markets Authority
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and challenging environment for Senior Litigation Directors to thrive in. With a strong commitment to employee development, a competitive benefits package including flexible working options, and a focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion, the CMA fosters a collaborative work culture that empowers its staff to make a meaningful impact in the public interest. Located at the heart of the UK's legal landscape, this role provides unique opportunities to engage with high-profile litigation across various courts, ensuring a rewarding career path for dedicated professionals.
Contact Detail:
Competition and Markets Authority Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Litigation Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who have experience with the CMA or similar organisations. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights and even referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of competition law and recent cases. We want you to showcase your expertise and strategic judgement, so be ready to discuss how you’d tackle high-profile litigation challenges.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities right there, tailored for talented individuals like you.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Litigation Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Senior Litigation Director role. Highlight your litigation experience, especially in competition law and public law, to show us you’re the right fit.
Showcase Leadership Skills:Since this role involves leading a team of litigators, it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Share examples of how you've successfully managed teams and fostered innovation in previous roles to give us a glimpse of your management style.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We want to see your thought process and strategic judgement shine through without any fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures we receive all your details correctly and helps us keep track of your application. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Competition and Markets Authority
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your litigation experience, especially in competition law and public law. Be ready to discuss specific cases you've worked on and how they relate to the CMA's work. This shows you understand the role and can hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Litigation Director, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've built and led teams in the past, focusing on how you fostered innovation and collaboration. This will highlight your capability to manage the CMA’s litigation team effectively.
✨Understand the CMA's Mission
Familiarise yourself with the CMA's objectives and recent high-profile cases. Being able to discuss how your vision aligns with their mission will show that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in contributing to their goals.
✨Prepare for Strategic Questions
Expect questions about strategic decision-making and resource allocation. Think about how you would approach these challenges at the CMA and be ready to share your thought process. This will demonstrate your strategic judgement and readiness for senior responsibilities.
