At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage complex legal cases in reputation, privacy, and security while mentoring junior staff.
- Company: Join Schillings, a leading advisory firm with a collaborative and fun culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a growth-focused team with excellent career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by solving high-stakes legal challenges for diverse clients.
- Qualifications: Expertise in defamation, privacy, and commercial litigation required.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Schillings is a multidisciplinary advisory firm with expertise in reputation, privacy and security. We work with UK and international clients to successfully manage high-stakes opportunities and threats, using a unique combination of capabilities: legal; intelligence; communications; security and diplomacy. We believe everyone has a right to fair treatment of their reputation, to a reasonable expectation of privacy and to feel safe.
Our experts sit within their specialist team but day-to-day work in multidisciplinary teams solving client problems. They are supported by our business services teams: Clients and Markets, HR, Finance, Risk and Compliance, IT and Client Services. Because we are a growth business, opportunities appear in all areas and at all levels.
We have the largest team of specialist media lawyers in the world, an expanding Intelligence & Investigations team, a growing Critical Risks unit, an evolving Digital Resilience practice, and a new communications agency – Schillings Communications – that will grow significantly in the next three years. Schillings is a collaborative, fun and welcoming place to work, with a positive culture, strong values and a developed service ethic.
We require commitment, diligence, agility and professionalism, and in return provide competitive packages and incredibly stimulating and interesting work. We are committed to sharing learning and creating development opportunities so you can progress your career with us. Our people’s career trajectory and longevity at Schillings is a good example of this: a third of our people have been at the business for over five years. Join us and become part of our story.
The Senior Associate role in our legal team involves working collaboratively across a variety of matters from global multidisciplinary reputation, privacy and security retainers to discreet legal issues. Senior Associates run urgent pre- and post-publication/broadcast matters, supervise complex litigation and offer strategic solutions to the Partners as to the way forward in matters. They ensure work is of high quality and delivered to time.
As experts, Senior Associates use feedback, coaching and mentoring to share knowledge with more junior colleagues to develop our talent. More widely, they will work with teams across the business to develop and execute strategies that leverage Schillings’ unique skillset.
Role Accountabilities
- Act as expert in our field of specialism in dealing with complex cases brought to the firm by its clients, supervising the work of more junior staff to provide a successful outcome.
- Responsible for all aspects of client management, anticipating clients’ needs and providing advice while ensuring the highest standard of client care and communication.
- As a member of the firm’s ‘expert’ team, responsible for developing the skills and experience of other fee-earners, sharing knowledge and best practice to the benefit of the firm, its clients and employees.
- Adhere to firm guidelines to successfully run matters, being an excellent people manager, time manager and project manager who is strongly task focused and delegates effectively.
- Support partners and colleagues across the business in developing the business and improving operations.
- Complete all mandatory training and understand the firm’s responsibilities in effective risk management.
- Look and act as an ambassador for the firm and its Bold, United, Innovative and Excellent values.
Technical
- Demonstrate an expert level of legal knowledge and experience in our core areas: defamation, privacy, confidence, harassment, DPA/GDPR and complementary areas such as employment litigation and commercial litigation.
- Work to continually develop technical and business knowledge and skills and maintain CPD requirements.
- Able to draft and interpret complex legal arguments, possibly without precedent, identifying and analysing all legal, commercial and reputational issues.
- Think through concepts, analyse risk, and problem solve at speed, developing creative solutions to client issues.
Commercial
- Commercially minded with a sensible approach to risk management, proactive in avoiding and addressing potential issues as appropriate.
- Commercially aware of clients’ business interests.
- Active in managing files, taking responsibility for projects, billing.
Legal Senior Associate in City of London employer: Schillings
Schillings is an exceptional employer that prioritises a supportive work culture and professional growth, making it an ideal place for a Senior Associate in Reputation & Privacy Law. With a focus on high-quality work and collaboration, employees benefit from mentorship opportunities and the chance to engage with complex global issues while building strong client relationships. Located in a vibrant environment, Schillings offers a unique blend of challenging legal work and a commitment to upholding its core values.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Senior Associate in City of London
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Schillings, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Senior Associate in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Schillings, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Schillings and the specific role of Legal Senior Associate. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Schillings’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Schillings
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Schillings.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Schillings.
