At a Glance
- Tasks: Handle complex insurance litigation and manage client relationships in a dynamic legal environment.
- Company: Join a world-leading global law firm with a commitment to excellence and client service.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive, inclusive culture.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values innovation and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in high-profile cases while growing your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Qualified legal practitioner with 2-4 years of experience in insurance law.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
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.
Our Insurance and Professional Risks team in the Disputes division in London is made up of around 30 lawyers headed up by Alex Oddy. The team has a unique practice carrying out high profile and complex work for policyholders, insurers and brokers across all sectors but with a focus on energy, real estate and financial institutions. The team also handles significant professional negligence cases involving mainly solicitors and insurance brokers.
Areas of expertise include:
- Coverage disputes across all classes of business including property damage/business interruption, professional indemnity, D&O, Cyber, Warranty & Indemnity, Credit and Political Risk, Contractors All Risk and public and product liability
- Contentious regulatory matters in the insurance sector
- Professional Indemnity claims
Key clients include: Marsh, AerCap, Sky, Chevron, various law firms and numerous corporate policyholders in the FTSE100 and FTSE250.
Recent matters include:
- Aercap on securing a US$1.035 billion win in the High Court under aviation insurance policies for the loss of aircraft and engines in Ukraine and Russia following Russia's invasion of Ukraine
- Marks & Spencer on its cyber insurance claim following a widely reported attack, securing a policy-limit payout of £100m within five months
- Sky on its successful £100+ million Construction All Risks policy claim in the English High Court and Court of Appeal
- FCA in successfully representing policyholder interests in the High Court and the Supreme Court in the Covid-19 business interruption test case
- Single Buoy Moorings Inc in Commercial Court proceedings on a US$1.3 billion construction all risks insurance claim concerning the Yme platform
- a purchaser of a pharmaceutical services company in relation to breach of warranty and associated escrow claims in relation to breach of warranty against both insurers under a W&I policy and the warrantors
- a global law firm in connection with a potential claim for negligence relating to advice given in connection with arbitration proceedings
- a leading international broker in connection with the UK FCA's market study into wholesale insurance broking
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer is ranked in:
- Tier 1 by both Legal 500 UK and Chambers UK in insurance litigation for policyholders.
- Tier 1 by Chambers Global for Insurance Sector: Policyholder (International & Cross-Border).
- Tier 2 for Professional Negligence in Legal 500 and Chambers UK.
Primary objectives:
- Deliver excellent client service and manage and deliver discrete pieces of legal work.
- Make an effective contribution to the firm’s work by aiming to meet and exceed target hours.
- Build a solid foundation of commercial and legal expertise within a chosen area of law and strengthen relationships with clients, frequently acting as a direct point of contact.
- Be responsible for some management and delegation of work to and support of junior colleagues.
Key responsibilities:
- This role will entail a range of contentious insurance work including coverage disputes. It will also involve assisting clients in the insurance sector with contentious regulatory matters and some advisory work in the context of policy reviews. It will also entail handling significant professional negligence claims (mainly involving insurance brokers and solicitors).
- 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 (e.g. 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/admitted legal practitioner in relevant jurisdiction.
- 2-4 PQE, however we are open to considering candidates with more or less experience.
- Solid knowledge of chosen area of law and industry sector(s).
- 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.
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: 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.
Insurance Litigation Associate (mid-level) in London employer: Herbert Smith Freehills
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises client service and excellence while fostering employee growth through mentorship and diverse opportunities. Located in London, our firm not only leads in insurance litigation but also champions inclusivity and innovation, ensuring that every team member can thrive and contribute to high-profile cases that make a real impact in the legal landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Insurance Litigation Associate (mid-level) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the insurance litigation field. Attend industry events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to current employees at Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research common questions for insurance litigation roles and practice your responses. Make sure you can articulate your experience and how it aligns with the firm's focus areas, like coverage disputes and professional negligence claims. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! When you get the chance, share your insights on recent cases or trends in the insurance sector during interviews or networking chats. This not only demonstrates your knowledge but also shows your passion for the field, which firms like Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer value.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the team at Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer. Don’t forget to tailor your application to highlight your relevant skills and experiences!
We think you need these skills to ace Insurance Litigation Associate (mid-level) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application for the Insurance Litigation Associate role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the job description, especially in areas like coverage disputes and professional negligence.
Showcase Your Legal Skills:We want to see your strong legal skills in action! Include examples of your drafting, negotiation, and project management abilities. This will help us understand how you can contribute to our team right from the start.
Demonstrate Client Focus:At Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer, exceptional client service is key. Share instances where you've gone above and beyond for clients or how you've built strong relationships. This shows us you're aligned with our values.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Herbert Smith Freehills
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of insurance litigation, especially in areas like coverage disputes and professional negligence. Brush up on recent high-profile cases, particularly those involving major clients like Marsh or Sky, as this will show your interest and knowledge in the field.
✨Showcase Your Client Service Skills
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer values exceptional client service. Be prepared to discuss how you've managed client relationships in the past, anticipated their needs, and delivered results. Use specific examples to illustrate your ability to build rapport and trust with clients.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
This role involves working closely with others, so highlight your teamwork skills. Share experiences where you've collaborated effectively with colleagues or mentored junior staff. Emphasise your ability to contribute to a positive team environment while achieving common goals.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the firm's culture, the Insurance and Professional Risks team, and their approach to complex litigation. This not only shows your genuine interest but also helps you assess if the firm aligns with your career goals.
