Associate (Disputes) - Mid-Level (12 month FTC) in London

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.

The Opportunity

We have an exciting opportunity available for a two year international secondment to London Disputes Group.

Primary Responsibilities

• This role could entail working on a range of contentious matters such as commercial litigation, banking & regulatory disputes and investigations.
• 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.
• Manage, develop and strengthen client relationships through anticipating client needs and expectations; and provide prompt responses and updates on progress.
• 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.
• 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

• Qualified legal practitioner in a common law jurisdiction.
• An experienced mid-level associate in dispute resolution, we may be open to considering candidates with less or more experience.
• Strong legal skills, including drafting, negotiation and project management skills; foundation level people management and business development skills.
• Good understanding of law firm profitability and key drivers for financial efficiency; and ability to help manage costs and budgets.
• An innovative mindset, curious about AI and emerging technologies.

Competencies

• Personal leadership: Takes initiative, embraces challenge and brings energy and drive to their work.
• Technical capability: Seeks opportunities to grow and develop to deliver value for our clients.
• Collaborates with others: Works as a team player, learns from and supports others.
• Plans and delivers outcomes: Operates as an effective legal project manager.
• Enhances the client experience: Builds relationships and innovates for the firm’s future.
• Contributes to building the firm: Builds relationships and innovates for the firm’s future.

Working Pattern: Full time

Location: London

Contract type: Fixed Term 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.