International Arbitration Associate/Solicitor in London

Gherson Solicitors LLP is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, gender, age, sexuality, gender identification, or physical ability.

Our expanding Dispute Resolution Team specialises in high value and complex litigation and arbitration cases all of which feature international elements such as different domestic laws and arbitration seats, and clients and co-counsel based outside England and Wales. Areas of current activity include commercial and investment treaty arbitration work across various jurisdictions, in particular Russia, the UK, India, Africa, Latin America, the Middle East and the United States, including cases with a sanctions-related component. The team also advises on arbitration-related litigation before the English courts and the enforcement of arbitral awards overseas.

We would like to hear from any international arbitration lawyers with both 5+ and 7+ years PQE. The candidate will have prior experience working in an international arbitration department of a reputable law firm – foreign law firm experience will be considered but the ideal candidate will have obtained English law qualification and gained experience working at a law firm in the UK. A high degree of familiarity with international investment arbitration, public international law and the major arbitration rules such as the ICC, LCIA, SIAC, ICSID, UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules is key.

Solicitors must have a current practising certificate, maintain their learning and development record and comply with the Solicitors Regulation Authority’s continuing competency requirements.

The ideal candidate would also have experience in some of the following:

• An ability to handle their own caseload (with supervision) for less complex cases, as well as assist on larger matters.
• Taking initial instructions, establishing suitability of the matter by undertaking preliminary research and reviewing documentation.
• Maintaining regular communications with clients, solicitors, supervisors and others and in meetings.
• Explaining fee structure and ensuring the client is kept apprised regularly of changes in any estimate of fees, providing advice at all stages, pre and post proceedings.
• Preparing memoranda of advice.
• Drafting statements of case, witness statements, application documents.
• Drafting and taking forward inter-parties correspondence.
• Selecting and instructing experts and counsel (where needed).
• Taking the lead on document production and related workstreams.
• Assisting with hearings before courts and tribunals.

Essential: minimum 2:1 undergraduate law degree or non-law degree with applicable post-graduate law qualification, with commendation at LPC or SQE (and/or equivalent foreign law qualification).

The skills required for this role will include:

• Legal Skills: A sound grasp of public international law and investment treaty arbitration. A high degree of familiarity with key arbitration rules such as the ICC, LCIA, SIAC, ICSID and UNCITRAL arbitration rules. Experience in applying core arbitration law issues in respect of the validity of agreements to arbitrate, identification of applicable law issues and the application of practice rules such as the IBA Rules on the Taking of Evidence in International Arbitration. Willingness to take responsibility for preparation of initial drafts of pleadings, correspondence and submissions, as well as meeting with witnesses and experts. An ability to handle and assess large amounts of documentation and a challenging variety of subject matter. Ability to work well as part of a team and on your own initiative with a positive attitude. Willingness to work independently whilst exercising good judgement about supervision as and when required. Demonstrates commercial awareness and vision. Attends/assists with/organises conferences and events. Contributes to marketing materials. Identifies/generates/follows up new business opportunities. Develops own network, raises own and firm profile. Assists with/attends/participates in/leads business pitches. Develops practice expertise, creates a media presence, becomes a recognised leader in the field, drives the reputation of the firm. Focuses on business development activities as part of the team and in line with the departments and the firm’s strategy.
• Business Development Skills: Demonstrates commercial awareness and vision. Attends/assists with/organises conferences and events. Contributes to marketing materials. Identifies/generates/follows up new business opportunities. Develops effective business/client relationships. Develops own network, raises own and firm profile. Assists with/attends/participates in/leads business pitches. Develops practice expertise, creates a media presence, becomes a recognised leader in the field, drives the reputation of the firm. Focuses on business development activities as part of the team and in line with the departments and the firm’s strategy.
• General Skills: Well organised, uses initiative, prioritises appropriately, shows attention to detail, manages own workload and meets deadlines. Demonstrates excellent communication and interpersonal skills (respectful, positive, articulate, professional and sympathetic) with individual and business contacts, with colleagues, opponents, experts and with the court. Delivers helpful internal services with a “can do” approach, shows commercial awareness and represents the department/firm appropriately. Shares information and ideas. Accepts and follows instructions, listens, makes notes, questions appropriately, co-operates. Shows sound judgement and decision-making skills. Shows commitment, passion and enthusiasm. Is a respectful, reliable and supportive team-player. Reflects the firm’s collegiate culture. Ability to work to deadlines/targets, prioritise and manage a caseload and deliver effective solutions. A commercial, solution-driven, and client-focused approach. Strong legal and analytical skills with an eye for detail. Excellent organisation and time management skills. Excellent IT skills and effective use of Case Management and Time Recording Systems.

The candidate must have an excellent (and demonstrable) drafting ability as well as a true commitment to achieving the very best outcome in some of the most difficult circumstances.