Senior/Principal Associate - Commercial Education
2026-09-14T00:00:00
Location: Birmingham, West Midlands, GB, B1 1, Any
Application Deadline: 2026-12-13T09:03:37.47
Reference: 0451
We're hiring an experienced Commercial Solicitor to work across our technology, education and government sectors, joining our growing, national team. The role involves working on a high-quality mix of contracts and strategic projects, advising on commercial agreements including complex supply chains, joint ventures, outsourcing, IT, and data protection, often with an international element.
You will work with clients across technology, education, and government sectors, delivering pragmatic, business-focused advice and building strong relationships from day one. This role can be based in any of our offices (excluding London and Oxford), providing a great opportunity to grow your profile.
The person
- You'll be a commercially astute solicitor with 6+ years' PQE, gained in a large regional, national, or international firm.
- You'll bring strong technical expertise across commercial, IT and IP law, coupled with a pragmatic, client-focused approach.
- You'll thrive in a collaborative environment and enjoy building relationships with clients and colleagues alike.
- You're confident in your ability to ask the right questions, quickly understand complex issues, and deliver advice that is both practical and impactful.
- We're looking for someone who is:
- A strong communicator with excellent written English and attention to detail
- A confident negotiator with sound commercial judgment
- Proactive, self-starting and solutions-oriented
- Able to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure
- Curious and engaged, with a genuine interest in how commercial and IT law shapes business relationships
- Committed to delivering outstanding client service
Activities
- Advising clients on complex commercial contracts and strategic projects
- Drafting, reviewing and negotiating agreements across multiple sectors
- Supporting clients on IT, IP and data protection matters
- Collaborating with colleagues across the firm to deliver seamless legal advice
- Building and maintaining strong client relationships
- Contributing to business development initiatives and thought leadership
- Managing a varied caseload with autonomy and accountability
- Identifying commercial risks and delivering clear, actionable advice
The benefits
As you'd expect, we offer a competitive salary and a wide range of benefits. Details about our core benefit offering are available separately.
Pre employment screening
If we offer you a role, we will conduct comprehensive pre-employment screening, including but not limited to a basic DBS, verification of your right to work, a three-year employment history, and a self-declaration to assess your character and suitability for the role. Full details of our pre-screening employment process are available upon request.
The firm
Mills & Reeve is centred on achieving more for clients, their businesses, and the wider communities we serve. Our clients and their industries benefit from our knowledge and learning, receiving consistent experiences with no surprises. We build personal relationships, with advice individually tailored to individual needs. We draw on our network to provide recommendations for services we don't directly offer. Our 1,450+ people and over 850 lawyers share one vision - achieving more for clients.
By joining Mills & Reeve, you'll have the chance to build your skills and experience within a firm that's ranked in the top 50 UK law firms and is highly regarded for its people. We are ranked in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work list, and have received Platinum Investors in People awards. Our mantra is "Achieve more. Together.", embodying our purpose beyond just a phrase.
Our values
- We're ambitious - We aim high, embrace new ideas, and are passionate about our work
- We're open - We communicate openly and honestly to build trust, and do what's right
- We care - We're committed to each other, our clients, communities, and the planet
- We collaborate - We're easy to work with, offer help willingly, and get things done together
Our commitment
Everyone at Mills & Reeve brings unique perspectives and ideas. We strive to provide an inclusive and supportive working environment, considering flexible working arrangements and workplace adjustments to support all employees.
To find out more about our diversity and inclusion initiatives, visit our website.
Vacancy Details
- Title: Senior/Principal Associate - Commercial Education
- Office Locations: Birmingham, Cambridge, Leeds, Manchester
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Closing Date: 25 September 2026
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