Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer is a world-leading global law firm, where our ambition is to help you achieve your goals.
Exceptional client service and the pursuit of excellence are at our core. We invest in and care about our client relationships, which is why so many are longstanding. We enjoy breaking new ground, as we have for over 170 years.
As a fully integrated transatlantic and transpacific firm, we are where you need us to be. Our footprint is extensive and committed across the world’s largest markets, key financial centres and major growth hubs.
At our best tackling complexity and navigating change, we work alongside you on demanding litigation, exacting regulatory work and complex public and private market transactions. We are recognised as leading in these areas.
We are immersed in the sectors and challenges that impact you. We are recognised as standing apart in energy, infrastructure and resources. And we’re focused on areas of growth that affect every business across the world.
All of this is achieved by supporting the growth of our people, who help us deliver on our ambition – which is to help you achieve yours.
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer: Your goals. Our ambition
The Opportunity
Practice group / team:
Main areas covered
| investment | development | disposals | mergers and acquisitions | leasing | joint ventures | large-scale regeneration | infrastructure and energy development projects | real estate financings and restructurings | pre-letting
Key clients includes
| Aberdeen | Almacantar | Ballymore | Blackstone | British Land | Brookfield | Canary Wharf Group | CPPIB | Global Switch | Goldman Sachs | Cain | Hines | TfL | Nuveen
Directory rankings include
| Top band for Chambers 2026 (Real Estate: over £150m) | Legal 500 2026 Real Estate Tier 1 for Investment, Development and Corporate Occupiers
Awards include
| Property Team of the Year, The British Legal Awards 2022 | Real Estate Team of the Year, Legal Business Awards 2022 | Real Estate Team, The Lawyer Awards 2023 | Property Week Legal Team 2024 | EG Law Firm of the Year 2025
Our core real estate practice in London comprises 11 Partners, 3 Of Counsel and 42 Associates, and is led by Julian Pollock.
Our award winning international real estate practice has a reputation for executing the largest and most complex real estate deals with accuracy and at speed.
We provide advice on all aspects of general commercial property including investment, restructuring, development, acquisitions, disposals, corporate occupiers, PPP, corporate support work and real estate finance. The group also has first-class standalone planning, dispute resolution and construction practices.
Dedicated real estate group widely recognised as a market leader. Experienced in all aspects of property work for a diverse range of clients, including institutional investors, leading developers and public sector bodies. Instructed on many high-value and high-profile deals in the market, as well as handling major urban regeneration work. Widely respected for its ability to complete structured transactions that feature a blend of corporate, finance and land issues.
‘ ‘They offer a large, multidisciplinary team capable of handling all aspects of complex transactions. The team culture is excellent, and they work well across practice areas.’
LEGAL 500 UK 2025
Commercial property: Corporate Occupiers
“ They provide comprehensive and expert advice and have in-depth knowledge on the latest deals in the market, enabling them to advise on the best negotiating positions.“
CHAMBERS UK 2025
Real estate: £150 million and above
The strength, reputation and diversity of our practice is demonstrated by the following current and recent highlights, advising:
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Allianz Real Estate on the creation of a student accommodation real estate joint venture with Greystar Real Estate Partners. Chapter Student Housing business comprises nine investment and development properties in key Central London locations
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Aberdeen Standard Investments on the sale of Churchill Square Brighton to Ingka, the largest UK shopping centre sale post-COVID
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MCR on its £275m acquisition of the BT Tower
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Advising Agratas , a global battery business within the Tata Group, which has been established to develop gigafactories for the manufacture of sustainable battery solutions.
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Related Argent on its major regeneration scheme for Tottenham Hale in London
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British Land on their Canada Water development, on the management of Broadgate Estate and together with their joint venture partner on the sale of 5 Broadgate to CK Asset Holdings for £1billion
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Brookfield on numerous UK investments and financing transactions including on the acquisition of CityPoint Tower, London, the pre-letting of 100 Bishopsgate, London and the development of London Wall Place
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Citibank on various acquisitions in Canary Wharf and on the major redevelopment and fit out of Citibank’s European HQ building, Citigroup Tower at 25 Canada Square
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Public Sector Pension Investment Board (PSP) on the creation of a £500 million ‘build-to-rent’ (BTR) residential property joint venture with Long Harbour
Primary objectives:
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To deliver technically excellent, commercial and client-centred advice on complex real estate matters.
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Build genuine and lasting client relationships by understanding our clients’ businesses, anticipating needs, communicating clearly and adding value beyond the immediate matter.
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Contribute to the growth, reputation and collective success of the Real Estate practice and the wider firm through collaboration, business development, knowledge sharing and innovation.
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Make an effective contribution to the firm’s work by aiming to meet and exceed target hours.
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Use AI, technology, and process improvements to improve the efficiency, quality and consistency of delivery.
Key responsibilities:
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Role-specific - this role will entail a broad range of transactional real estate work, including investment, restructuring, development, acquisitions, disposals, corporate support work and real estate finance
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Manage work to support optimal utilisation; assist senior lawyers as required, acting as lead lawyer, where appropriate; delegate and provide feedback to juniors and communicate progress on tasks to supervisor and team members, consulting and offering solutions on difficult technical client issues; and manage the billing process as appropriate.
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Manage, develop and strengthen client relationships through anticipating client needs and expectations; and provide prompt responses and updates on progress.
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Support the firm and others - establish effective relationships with individuals and groups, across the global network; uphold the firm’s values; contribute to the firm’s initiatives (eg corporate social responsibility and diversity and inclusion activities); mentor and support juniors; raise profile by being involved with external bodies and supporting and attending marketing/industry events; and assist with internal training and preparation of legal precedents.
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Comply with risk requirements, firm policies and all relevant professional responsibilities and legislation and contribute to billing, engagement and client acceptance processes.
Qualifications, skills and experience
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Ideally 2-5 PQE in transactional real estate, however we are open to considering candidates outside of this guideline who demonstrate the required level of competency
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Experience across real estate development, investment, acquisitions, disposals, and asset management required
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Be admitted to practice in England & Wales or having recent transactional experience within the jurisdiction
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Solid knowledge of chosen area of law and industry sector(s).
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Excellent technical legal skills, including sophisticated drafting, negotiation, transaction management, risk identification and concise communication of complex issues.
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Excellent academic record
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A client-focused and collaborative approach, with evidence of building trusted relationships and contributing to business development.
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An innovative mindset, curious about AI and emerging technologies. A genuine passion for advancing legal delivery with technology and a willingness to be a ‘super-user’ within the real estate group
Team
Real Estate
Working Pattern
Full time
Location
London
Contract type
Permanent Contract
Diversity & Inclusion
We are committed to attracting people from all backgrounds and creating a respectful and inclusive culture where everyone thrives. We see this as essential to our success, including our ability to innovate and achieve sustained high performance. This is a key part of our Values—Human, Bold, and Outstanding.
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Mid-level Associate, Real Estate employer: Herbert Smith Freehills LLP
Herbert Smith Freehills LLP is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, where experienced professionals can thrive. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to mentorship opportunities and the chance to lead high-profile events that shape client relationships. Located in a vibrant city, the firm offers a dynamic environment that encourages creativity and strategic thinking, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in event management.
Contact Details:
Herbert Smith Freehills LLP Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mid-level Associate, Real Estate
✨Get Involved in Local Property Events
Dive into local property expos and networking events! Real estate thrives on connections, so attending these events helps us meet potential employers and industry leaders, plus it's a chance to show off your enthusiasm for the field.
✨Connect with Local Agents on Social Media
Follow and engage with local real estate agents and firms on platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn. Sharing their posts and commenting with your insights can put you on their radar and might even lead to job opportunities at companies like Herbert Smith Freehills LLP.
✨Don’t Underestimate the Power of Cold Outreach
Got your eye on a specific company like Herbert Smith Freehills LLP? Don't hesitate to send a direct message or an email expressing your interest. Personalise your approach, maybe mentioning a recent listing or project of theirs, and it could set you apart from other candidates.
✨Utilise Property Management Platforms
Check out property management platforms and job boards tailored for the real estate sector. They often have exclusive listings, especially for full-time roles. Don't forget to visit Herbert Smith Freehills LLP's careers page directly; we love seeing passionate candidates applying through our website!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Real-Estate Savvy:When crafting your CV and cover letter, make sure to highlight any relevant experience in the real estate sector. If you've done internships, assistant roles, or even relevant coursework, lay it out clearly. We want to see your familiarity with market trends, property management, or any sales experience you've got under your belt!
Quantify Your Achievements:In real estate, numbers speak volumes! When detailing your past roles, use concrete figures to demonstrate your achievements. For example, mention how many properties you sold, the percentage increase in client satisfaction, or any successful negotiations. These metrics can give your application that extra punch it needs!
Tailor Your Documents for the Job:Every application should feel personal. When applying for the Mid-level Associate, Real Estate role at Herbert Smith Freehills LLP, tweak your CV to focus on aspects that are important to them. If they value client relationships, emphasise your interpersonal skills. We want to see you aligning your experiences with what they're looking for!
Keep It Professional Yet Approachable:While we want you to show off your expertise, don't forget to let your personality shine through in your cover letter. A touch of friendliness can set you apart, especially in real estate where client interaction is key. Show that you're ready not just to work with the property but also with people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Herbert Smith Freehills LLP
✨Know Your Market Trends
In real estate, it’s all about staying ahead of the curve. Make sure we brush up on the latest market trends in the area where Herbert Smith Freehills LLP operates. Being able to discuss local property values, demand, and upcoming developments will show that we’re not just interested in the job, but genuinely invested in the industry.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions during the interview. We might get asked how we’d handle different client situations or property evaluations. Preparing our responses for common real estate scenarios not only demonstrates our problem-solving skills but also shows that we can think on our feet in a client-facing role.
✨Showcase Your Connections
In full-time real estate, networking is key! Let’s think about our connections in the industry and what we can bring to Herbert Smith Freehills LLP. Whether it’s insights on prospective clients or relationships with local contractors, talking about these experiences can set us apart from other candidates.
✨Demonstrate Technical Savvy
Familiarity with different real estate software tools is a big plus. We should be ready to discuss any platforms we've used, whether it's for property management, CRM, or data analysis. Being comfortable with technology not only makes us more efficient, but also shows that we’re adaptable to the tools used at Herbert Smith Freehills LLP.
