Dispute Resolution Consultant

A London based claims and disputes consultancy is searching for an entry level Dispute Resolution Consultant to join their growing team. This role would particularly suit candidates currently working for traditional contractors, consultancies or client organisations who have had exposure to carrying out delay analysis. Experience gained using planning software such as Primavera, Asta Powerproject and Microsoft Project is highly desirable. This construction consultant position is ideal for candidates with the above experience who want to specialise in delay analysis and pursue a long‑term career in claims and disputes.

The consultancy offers a range of specialist services to clients who lack in‑house expertise to resolve project problems. Work is often undertaken for major luxury housing developers on large mixed‑use residential projects in prime UK locations, including London. Services provided include:

• Advisory services in relation to dispute avoidance and dispute resolution
• Preparation of claims
• Negotiation and settlement of claims and disputes
• Support and representation in mediation and adjudication
• Expert witness and advisory services for arbitration and litigation

Because of the nature of the services offered, successful candidates will gain exposure to unique issues relating to delays, disputes and negotiations across a wide range of construction projects.

Responsibilities and Duties

Delay Analyst candidates at this level are not expected to have carried out all of the following duties previously. However, you must have had good exposure to dealing with some delay‑related claims issues within previous roles while working as a Planner, Project Manager, Site Engineer or Quantity Surveyor. Further training and support can be provided to develop your skills into a more rounded delay analyst moving forward. A snapshot of your duties and responsibilities within this role includes:

• Forensic investigation of project delays.
• Preparation of prospective and retrospective delay analyses across a variety of construction and engineering projects, including assimilation of technical information, evidence of delays and presentation of information in both programmes and reports.
• Preparation of programmes for new construction projects and the monitoring and resequencing of existing programmes to ensure live works are completed as quickly and efficiently as possible.
• Preparation of written reports for use in negotiation, as well as formal dispute resolution processes such as mediation, adjudication and litigation; prepared as either advocate or assistant to an independent expert.
• Preparation or defence of extension of time claims on behalf of employers, main contractors and sub‑contractors.
• Working independently or with client teams to carry out ‘live’ planning assistance.

Desired Skills and Experience

Candidates are likely to come from a project planning or quantity surveying background to have the necessary skills to carry out this role. Experience on site ideally. Many of the clients will be major UK contractors, so experience of planning on building projects will be advantageous. Prior experience of using at least one of the following planning software on a regular basis: Primavera P6, Asta Powerproject or Microsoft Project. Understanding of contract and law within the construction industry, particularly planning and delay matters. Good working knowledge of standard contract forms, especially JCT or NEC. Strong written skills are imperative and candidates should be able to demonstrate a high level of ability in this area. Strong client‑facing and presentation skills are essential. Adaptable and hungry to continue learning – for example, new contract types, analysis techniques and claims and dispute related trends. Ability to work on multiple commissions concurrently. High level of knowledge of construction techniques.

Qualifications/Educational Requirements

Degree qualified. Studying toward a higher qualification in construction law or a similar equivalent is advantageous but not essential.

Employing Company Overview and Profile

The hiring company is a London based, bespoke claims and disputes consultancy with 25+ staff. It is a well‑established, growing business with an expert team of staff that includes accredited mediators, qualified adjudicators and practising expert witnesses. They have a strong network within the legal profession and are regularly approached by lawyers and solicitors of domestic and international construction companies to provide support and guidance on problem projects.

Additional Benefits Package and Incentives

Basic salary in the region of up to £75,000 depending on experience at this level + Pension + Bonus + Support towards further qualifications + Hybrid working + £500‑£1,000 cash reward for successful matches.