Trade and Government Affairs Associate/Senior Associate in London

DLA Piper's UK Trade and Government Affairs (TGA) team advises on all aspects of sanctions, export controls, customs, trade remedies, and FTA/WTO advisory, including representing clients in voluntary disclosures and enforcement actions. It works closely with the Corporate Crime and Investigations team given the growing cross-over between sanctions, anti-money laundering and investigations work. It also supports clients in engaging effectively with the UK government to achieve their objectives in trade and other policy areas.

The TGA team is one of the leading international trade law teams in the UK and works closely across DLA Piper’s global platform, particularly with our lawyers in Washington D.C., Brussels, Singapore and Dubai. We are currently recruiting for an England & Wales qualified Solicitor to join the TGA team in the UK. The role can be based in any of our UK offices but will also require travel to client sites and our other international offices from time to time.

The role will involve advising on a combination of customs, WTO trade advisory and trade remedies, but also on sanctions and export controls depending on the successful applicant's experience and client demand.

• Advising on UK trade remedies mandates
• Advising on UK customs laws and regulations and representing clients in related audits
• Advising on compliance with Free Trade Agreements and WTO Agreements, including advice to UK Government departments
• Advising on UK and EU export control laws and regulations
• Advising on UK and EU financial and trade sanctions laws and regulations

We’re proud of our collaborative and supportive environment, and we’re looking for approachable lawyers with strong potential, who communicate effectively, demonstrate sound professional judgement, and can present ideas and advise stakeholders. We do not set upper or lower limits of PQE for any of our vacancies. We have however given an indicative PQE as an approximate guide for applicants. Candidates who have between 3-6 years' PQE are likely to have the right level of knowledge and have gained the right level of experience needed to be able to undertake this role.

The ideal candidate will:

• Be able to demonstrate a deep understanding of the technical issues in one or more of the areas of practice listed above that are key to clients
• Experience of working as a legal adviser within the UK Civil Service in the field of trade remedies or international trade and/or trade compliance will be an advantage
• Have experience working across jurisdictions and advising international clients
• Be capable of building and developing their own network of internal and external contacts
• Be able to draft documents using a commercial, client focussed style
• Comply with professional standards and all relevant regulatory obligations
• Comply with the firm's systems, policies and procedures in all matters - including compliance, financial systems and time recording
• Know and understand how to best utilise information and research resources
• A values-based approach – the candidate should be bold, supportive, collaborative and exceptional
• Commercially astute and stays current on key legal and business news
• Excellent skills in communication, client relations and team-working
• A proactive, self-driven, entrepreneurial and innovative outlook
• Provides a professional, quality service in a timely manner, and responds effectively to requests from internal and external clients
• Understands positive client support
• Creates confidence in the team and the firm
• Works co-operatively in a team, sharing information and knowledge
• Manages time effectively and efficiently
• Seeks to manage own utilisation wherever possible in order to meet individual and team targets
• Takes ownership for achieving agreed objectives
• Recognises and seizes opportunities for the firm, including repeat business
• Builds and develops own network of internal and external contacts
• Develops an awareness of business development initiatives and identifies ways to contribute
• Maintains a controlled, objective and flexible approach under pressure
• Exhibits behaviour consistent with the firm's values and builds relationships based on respect, trust and integrity

This job description is not designed to be exhaustive and can be varied as required to develop or fulfil this role.

We offer excellent training, learning and development programmes, as well as a genuine opportunity to experience a wide range of work and clients in a friendly, supportive environment.

We're a global law firm helping our clients achieve their goals wherever they do business. Our pursuit of innovation has transformed our delivery of legal services. With offices in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, we deliver exceptional outcomes on cross-border projects, critical transactions and high-stakes disputes.

At DLA Piper, we understand that inclusion is not a one-size-fits-all concept. We embrace and celebrate the range of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences that each individual brings to our firm. By fostering a culture that welcomes and appreciates all aspects of our individuality, we ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Our commitment to inclusion and positive social impact enables us to provide exceptional service to our clients and communities, while nurturing a unique and inclusive culture for all our people. We welcome the unique contribution that you will bring to our firm and actively encourage applications from all talented people – however your talent is packaged, whatever your background or circumstance and regardless of how you identify.

We are committed to being accessible and accommodating any reasonable adjustments needed throughout the recruitment process to ensure an inclusive experience for all. If you need any support or adjustments, please let us know.

Where local legislation permits, we will conduct relevant pre-engagement screening checks prior to your first day.

At DLA Piper, we aim to make meaningful progress and build an inclusive culture where anyone affected by disability, neurodiversity or a long-term health condition has an equitable and accessible chance of success. If you think you may need adjustments or additional support to enable you to participate in our recruitment process, please contact our Recruitment team and we will be happy to support you.

We recognise that people have responsibilities and interests outside of their career and that as a business, we all benefit from working flexibly. That’s why we are open to discussing with candidates the different ways in which we are able to support requests for agile working arrangements.

In the event that we make an offer to you, and where local legislation permits, we will conduct pre-engagement screening checks that may include but are not limited to your professional and academic qualifications, your eligibility to work in the relevant jurisdiction, any criminal records, your financial stability, and references from previous employers.

Our hiring approach enables us to learn about the professional and person you are, and gives you the opportunity to learn about us. Your recruitment experience can differ depending on the type of role you are interviewing for. You will always meet your direct Line Manager for your role, as well as peers and close collaborators for the position. For some of our roles we may also use assessment tools, practical exercises, and panel presentations. Your Recruitment Business Partner will inform you of the recruitment process at the start of any recruitment process, but please let us know if you have any questions prior to making an application.

We’re redefining what an international law firm can be. With a unique global network and an unparalleled range of expertise, this is where you’ll work on the cases that shape the world and will define your career.

Staying in touch with like-minded people is important to us. Our Talent Community provides unique access to our firm so you can discover why we are a different kind of law firm.

We pride ourselves on the extraordinary impact we make beyond the borders of traditional law. That’s only possible because of the skills our business professionals bring and the environment we create to let them thrive. See where your skills could take you.