Associate or Supervising Associate - AI Regulatory & Disputes

Our market-leading AI Regulatory & Disputes team, which sits within our Disputes & Investigations group, provides cutting‑edge advice and strategic, commercial thinking, underpinned by deep technical and sector expertise. We advise some of the world’s largest organisations on their AI regulatory and enforcement risk. We also handle a full range of high‑value, complex disputes and contentious regulatory matters, spanning issues arising from the development and deployment of AI and other emerging technologies, as well as disputes involving financial services, fintech, technology and life sciences clients. The team is recognised as Band 1 for AI in Legal 500, and a Global Market Leader for AI in Chambers.

As well as complex AI regulatory work, we have deep expertise in disputes involving novel legal issues, parallel proceedings and matters of significant reputational and financial risk. We are increasingly instructed on disputes and investigations relating to AI systems, data usage, algorithmic decision‑making, technology failures, cyber incidents, and regulatory scrutiny of innovative products and platforms. Our clients value our pragmatic, solutions‑focused approach when the legal landscape is evolving and the stakes are high.

The Role

We are seeking to recruit an Associate or Supervising Associate (2–5 PQE) to join our Disputes & Investigations team in London or Bristol, with a focus on AI regulatory work and AI / technology‑related disputes and investigations. You will work closely with partners and senior associates on high‑value and often high‑profile matters, advising clients on disputes and investigations at the intersection of law, technology and regulation. The role offers exposure to cutting‑edge issues, including disputes and regulatory enforcement action arising from the development and use of AI, contractual and commercial disputes involving technology products and services, and complex multi‑jurisdictional matters. You will also play a key role in supervising junior lawyers, managing workstreams, and contributing to the development of the team’s AI and technology disputes offering, working collaboratively with colleagues across the firm’s international network.

Person Specification

• Excellent academic background.
• 2–5 years’ post‑qualification experience in complex commercial disputes, investigations or contentious regulatory matters.
• Experience in AI, technology, data or digital‑related disputes, including technology contracts, data issues, regulatory investigations, or disputes involving innovative products or platforms.
• Preferred but not essential: experience in AI regulation or broader EU tech regulation.
• Ability to supervise and mentor junior team members and manage discrete aspects of matters.
• Comfortable working on complex, fast‑moving and high‑stakes disputes, often involving novel legal and factual issues.
• Strong analytical, drafting and communication skills.
• Flexible and willing to work additional hours when required.
• Applicants should have trained and qualified at a leading law firm or at the Bar.
• A collaborative mindset and the ability to work effectively as part of a diverse and inclusive team.

Key Highlights

• Competitive compensation package, including bonuses, private medical insurance, and pension contribution.
• A global skills academy offering extensive learning opportunities for all employees.
• A hybrid working model, requiring a minimum of three days in‑office, subject to role and client needs.
• Integration of traditional legal expertise with innovative Simmons & Simmons Solutions.
• Recognition as a Stonewall Top Global Employer and a Top 75 Employer for Social Mobility.
• Vibrant social and sports committees, as well as art collections featuring renowned artists.
• The introduction of a Strategic Advisory Council to drive strategic initiatives in line with our mission.

Equal opportunities

We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment, offering equal employment opportunities across all spectrums of race, ethnicity, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and more. Flexible working arrangements are supported, and we strive to make our roles accessible to all. Our employee networks offer additional support, detailed in our D&I Information booklet provided during the recruitment process. We value diversity and encourage applications from those who are passionate and willing to grow with us, even if not all requirements are met. Your unique experiences and perspectives are welcomed here.