Associate, Commercial Disputes - Leading International Law Firm

Our client, a globally recognised law firm with a strong presence across major financial centres, is seeking a talented commercial disputes associate to join its London office. With an established reputation for delivering robust dispute resolution services across key sectors, this team continues to grow in both size and profile.

This is an opportunity for a mid-senior level litigator with 4 to 9 years\’ PQE to play a visible role in high-value litigation and arbitration, often with a cross-border element. The successful candidate will act on behalf of a diverse mix of corporate clients, including multinational organisations and public entities, with a focus on contentious matters in sectors such as energy, finance, and regulation.

Working closely with senior partners and counsel, you will be involved in all stages of disputes—from advisory through to hearings—while also contributing to strategic planning, team development, and client relationship management. The team is collaborative and well-integrated within the wider firm, with matters frequently intersecting with other practice areas across EMEA, Asia-Pacific, and the Americas.

This role is particularly well-suited to a driven associate who is looking to take on increased responsibility in a supportive environment. You will be given substantial autonomy to develop case strategy, manage client communications, and help steer business development initiatives, while benefiting from the guidance of highly experienced partners.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead on a range of litigation and arbitration matters across commercial and regulated sectors.
• Develop and maintain strong client relationships, providing clear, commercial legal advice.
• Participate in cross-border mandates alongside international colleagues.
• Contribute to practice growth through BD initiatives and firmwide collaboration.
• Support junior team members through supervision and mentoring where appropriate.

Candidate Requirements:

• Qualified to practise in England & Wales, with a strong academic profile.
• Between 4 to 9 years’ PQE, with experience gained in a leading City disputes team.
• Solid working knowledge of the CPR and familiarity with commercial arbitration frameworks.
• Experience handling disputes involving financial services, regulatory elements, or the energy sector would be advantageous.
• Excellent drafting, analysis, and client-handling skills, with a pragmatic, business-aware approach.

Personal Attributes:

• Strong sense of ownership and ability to work independently on complex issues.
• Effective communicator, both written and verbal, with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Commercially minded, with a keen understanding of risk and client priorities.
• Resilient, solutions-focused, and enthusiastic about contributing to the wider team.
• Committed to continuous learning and career development.

Rutherford is a leading legal recruiter that also works closely with tier one sponsors, buyside firms and investment banks for in-house roles. Please get in contact if you would like to be alerted to the most exciting Counsel opportunities.

To find more of our jobs please visit our website: https://www.rutherfordsearch.com/jobs

Job Reference: NWC9858

Keywords:

Litigation, Arbitration, Commercial Disputes, Financial Services, Energy Law, Cross-Border Disputes, CPR, Associate, PQE 4-8, London, International Law Firm, Law Jobs London