At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage a diverse caseload and deliver top-notch legal services in construction law.
- Company: Join an award-winning firm known for its supportive and people-focused culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, bonuses, health benefits, and paid time off for volunteering.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a growing team while developing your career with experts.
- Qualifications: Minimum 5 years PQE in construction law with strong client-facing skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 € per year.
Harrison-Drury is a market leading Firm of solicitors with offices in Lancashire, Cumbria, and Staffordshire. We’re delighted to be named one of the UK’s Best Companies to work for, for the third-year running, placing at number 40 in the Top 100 Best Mid‑Sized Companies to work for list. We also ranked 10th in the Best Companies to work for in the Law sector — achievements that reflect our commitment to creating a supportive, people‑focused workplace.
About the Construction Team
Our specialist Construction Department is led by Katherine Sibley, a Legal 500 Recommended Lawyer. The team provides high‑quality legal services across the construction industry, working with contractors, developers, architects, engineers, local councils and residential homeowners.
Non‑contentious expertise: Drafting suites of construction documentation including contracts, subcontractor terms, professional appointments, collateral warranties, parent company guarantees, performance bonds, pre‑construction services agreements and letters of reliance. The team are experts in JCT, NEC, IChemE, and FIDIC contracts. The team assists the commercial property team in advising on agreements for lease, licences for works and development agreements. The team also assists the corporate and commercial teams providing risk reviews for clients, advice on procurement methods, supplier terms.
Contentious expertise: Handling disputes such as breach of contract, loss & expense, delay & disruption claims, professional negligence, and adjudication enforcement. The team is experienced in running and defending claims in the Technology & Construction Court including Part 8 claims and in ADR processes including adjudication, arbitration, and mediation. The team advises on risk avoidance, risk management and debt recovery.
The Opportunity
We are looking to recruit a qualified Solicitor Associate/Senior Associate (minimum 3 years PQE) with proven construction law experience. This is a fantastic opportunity to:
- Take on an existing caseload immediately.
- Play a key role in the growth and development of the team across the respective offices.
- Work flexibly, with remote working options available.
Typical Duties
- Managing a busy and varied caseload.
- Liaising with supervisors to balance workload.
- Delivering excellent client service and building long‑term relationships.
- Supporting and supervising junior team members and support staff.
- Collaborating effectively with other service line teams.
- Contributing to team objectives and knowledge development.
- Producing high‑quality legal advice and documentation.
- Helping to develop a precedent bank.
- Writing blogs and LinkedIn posts on construction law developments.
- Promoting Harrison Drury’s values internally and externally.
- Providing or assisting with training sessions for clients (optional).
- Performing seminars for clients and targets (optional).
Skills & Experience
- Ability to manage own caseload with minimal supervision.
- Minimum of 5 years PQE within a construction department.
- Strong attention to detail and excellent organisational skills.
- Ability to prioritise work to meet strict deadlines.
- Excellent communication and IT skills.
- Strong client‑facing skills and commercial awareness.
- Proven business development ability, with a track record of building networks.
- Solid understanding of construction law and experience across a wide range of matters.
Desirable:
- Experience in both contentious and non‑contentious construction matters.
- Knowledge of JCT and NEC contracts.
Benefits
At Harrison Drury, we believe in rewarding our people and supporting their wellbeing. Benefits include:
- Hybrid working policy
- Commitment to a maximum of 1,200 chargeable hours per annum
- Employee bonus scheme and annual pay review
- Medicash health benefits cash plan and Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Holiday entitlement increases with length of service
- Paid time off for voluntary work (2 days per year)
- Free conveyancing for the purchase/sale of your primary residence
- Free individual or mirror Wills
- Employee referral scheme
- Biannual promotion and salary uplift application process
- Regular social events, including our annual Christmas party and staff recognition awards
Why Join Us?
- Be part of an award‑winning, people‑focused firm.
- Work alongside recognised experts in the field.
- Enjoy a supportive culture that invests in staff development and wellbeing.
- Flexible working arrangements to suit your lifestyle.
- Opportunity to make a real impact in a growing team.
Construction Senior Associate employer: Harrison Drury & Co
Harrison-Drury is an award-winning law firm that prioritises a supportive and people-focused workplace, making it an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful careers in construction law. With a commitment to employee wellbeing, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for professional growth, you will thrive in a culture that values collaboration and excellence. Join a team of recognised experts and contribute to impactful legal services while enjoying a range of benefits designed to reward and develop our talented staff.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Construction Senior Associate
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, join construction law forums, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Write articles or blogs about construction law developments and share them on LinkedIn. This not only showcases your knowledge but also helps you get noticed by potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; engage! When you find a role you love, reach out to someone at the firm for an informal chat. It shows initiative and can give you insider info that might just set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep your skills sharp! Consider taking additional courses or certifications in construction law. This not only boosts your CV but also demonstrates your commitment to professional growth, making you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Construction Senior Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Construction Senior Associate role. Highlight your relevant experience in construction law and how it aligns with what we do at Harrison-Drury.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate your skills! Use specific examples from your past work that showcase your ability to manage a caseload, deliver excellent client service, and contribute to team objectives.
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who fits our supportive and people-focused culture, so don’t be afraid to show us who you are!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people and shows your enthusiasm for joining our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harrison Drury & Co
✨Know Your Construction Law
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of construction law, especially JCT and NEC contracts. Be prepared to discuss specific cases or scenarios where you've applied this knowledge in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Client-Facing Skills
Since the role involves building long-term relationships with clients, think of examples where you've successfully managed client expectations or resolved disputes. Highlight your communication skills and how they contribute to excellent client service.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
Harrison-Drury values teamwork, so be ready to share experiences where you've collaborated effectively with colleagues or other departments. Discuss how you’ve supported junior team members or contributed to team objectives.
✨Prepare for Business Development Questions
As business development is key for this role, come equipped with ideas on how you can help grow the firm’s network. Think about past successes in building relationships and how you can leverage those skills at Harrison-Drury.