Hours
Full-time, 9.30am - 5.30pm (open to part-time working)
Associate - Charity and Not-for-Profit
Hours
Full-time, 9.30am - 5.30pm (open to part-time working)
Department
Charity and Not-for-Profit
Are you a charity lawyer ready for your next step, or a corporate or commercial lawyer looking to apply your skills in a different context? Join one of the UK’s leading charity law practices, advising organisations tackling important social challenges.
Why join us?
- Work on high-profile and varied matters for charities, social impact organisations and philanthropists
- Learn from recognised charity law specialists in a team known for the breadth and quality of its work
- Take ownership of matters and build trusted relationships with purpose-led clients
- Progress your career through tailored training, close supervision and genuine opportunities to advance
- Join a supportive, inclusive team that values collaboration and wellbeing
The role
Russell-Cooke’s Charity and Not-for-Profit team is looking for an Associate to advise charities and other purpose-led organisations on governance, regulatory and commercial matters.
Working with experienced colleagues, you will develop strong client relationships and help organisations navigate complex legal and strategic challenges. Your work will include:
- Establishing new charities and drafting or updating governing documents
- Advising on charity and company law
- Supporting charity restructures, mergers and incorporations
- Advising on commercial contracts, including brand licences and fundraising agreements
- Advising on data protection and information law
The work is varied and would suit someone who is enthusiastic about expanding their expertise across a wide range of legal areas. You might help a philanthropist establish an innovative new foundation, advise trustees on a sensitive governance issue or support a national charity through a significant restructuring.
The role will be based in the firm’s Putney office, with opportunities to work from our central London office in Holborn as well as from home, in line with the firm’s hybrid working policy. We currently require a minimum of 60% office attendance.
About You
The role is likely to suit someone with around 2-4 years’ PQE, although we have some flexibility around this. We are looking for:
- A qualified solicitor, ideally with experience in charity, corporate and/or commercial law
- Strong technical legal ability, analytical skills and sound judgement, with the ability to provide practical and solutions-focused advice
- Clear, concise drafting and close attention to detail
- Confidence in building trusted relationships with clients and colleagues
- The ability to take ownership of matters, manage competing priorities and meet deadlines
- Curiosity and enthusiasm for developing expertise, building your profile and contributing to business development
Charity experience is beneficial but not essential, though candidates should have a genuine interest in the sector. We welcome applicants who can demonstrate their commitment to the sector, for example through volunteering or trusteeship.
We also encourage applicants from private practice and in-house roles, including career returners and second-career lawyers.
The team
Consistently highly ranked in Chambers UK and the Legal 500, we advise leading charities, start-ups, philanthropists and corporate foundations, with particular strength in international work. Clients include UNICEF, Anthony Nolan and Breast Cancer Now.
Our team of 18 lawyers works exclusively with charities and not-for-profits across governance, commercial, property, intellectual property, data protection, employment and safeguarding.
One of our four charity governance partners will supervise you. You will work across the team, have direct client contact and be supported to manage your own workload.
The firm
Russell-Cooke is a UK Top 100 law firm, with over 250 lawyers and legal professionals across three London offices. We combine high-quality legal work with a collaborative, supportive and inclusive culture.
Our connection with London and commitment to social justice are reflected in our clients, community partnerships and approach to responsible business. Read our Responsible business report.
Russell-Cooke was named Law Firm of the Year: The Independents at The Lawyer Awards in 2025 and Law Firm of the Year at the LexisNexis Legal Awards 2026.
Your career development
You will agree development goals with your supervising partner and receive tailored training, regular feedback and experience that prepares you for the next stage of your career.
Salary And Benefits
We offer competitive salaries and a generous benefits package.
Diversity and inclusion
We have a diverse workforce and aim to attract high-calibre applicants who reflect the demography of our geographical location and client base. We recruit and employ people solely on merit according to the requirements of the role. No applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of sex, race, marital status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy/maternity or religion. Reasonable adjustments will be made to eliminate or reduce disadvantage.
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