Associate - Competition Litigation in Bristol

Our Competition Litigation practice sits within the firm's broader Disputes & Investigations function, one of the leading disputes practices in the market. The wider team advises on business-critical disputes, investigations and regulatory matters across a range of sectors including financial institutions, technology, media and telecommunications, life sciences, energy and infrastructure. The practice is recognised for handling complex, high-value and strategically significant disputes, including collective proceedings, competition damages claims, abuse of dominance disputes, cartel-related litigation and regulatory investigations.

The Competition Litigation team acts on some of the most technically challenging and precedent-setting cases in the UK market. Our lawyers work closely with economists, regulators, barristers and international colleagues to develop innovative litigation strategies, navigating cases that often sit at the intersection of competition law, commercial litigation and sector regulation. The team has particular experience in collective actions, standalone and follow-on damages claims, injunctive relief applications and disputes arising in highly regulated industries.

This is an opportunity to join a growing team with a strong reputation for combining technical excellence with pragmatic, commercially focused advice, while working alongside leading litigators on market-leading matters.

The Role

• We are seeking an Associate with approximately 2-6 years' PQE to join our Competition Litigation team. The successful candidate will play a key role across a broad range of contentious competition matters, advising clients from the earliest stages of a dispute through to trial, settlement or appeal.
• You will work as part of integrated, multi-disciplinary teams on complex litigation, often involving detailed economic evidence, extensive disclosure exercises and sophisticated legal analysis.
• The role will involve:

• Advising clients on competition damages actions, collective proceedings, abuse of dominance claims and other competition-related disputes.
• Managing day-to-day conduct of cases, including drafting pleadings, witness statements, procedural applications and client advice.
• Assisting with disclosure, evidence gathering and case management processes in large-scale disputes.
• Supporting regulatory and investigatory matters where competition law issues arise.
• Contributing to business development initiatives, client relationship management and thought leadership activity.
• Collaborating with colleagues across the wider Disputes & Investigations practice and other specialist teams throughout the firm on multi-disciplinary matters.

Person Specification

• Qualified solicitor with approximately 2-6 years' PQE, gained at a leading law firm or well-regarded disputes practice.
• Experience advising on competition litigation, competition investigations or broader commercial litigation with a strong competition law element.
• Exposure to high-value, complex disputes and familiarity with the litigation process from inception through to resolution.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to engage confidently with complex legal, factual and economic issues.
• Excellent drafting, advocacy and communication skills.
• Experience working closely with clients, experts, counsel and multi-disciplinary legal teams.
• Sound commercial judgement and an ability to deliver practical, client-focused advice.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• A collaborative approach and enthusiasm for working as part of an international disputes practice.
• A genuine interest in competition law, market regulation and strategically significant litigation.

Here at Simmons & Simmons, our culture is built on work that matters. You will work on inspirational and thought-provoking projects, using your influence to create positive impact for our clients, society and the planet. We also ensure that everyone’s voice is heard from day one, irrespective of job title, qualification, or background. You’ll be encouraged to have an enquiring mind and share ideas that can drive the firm forward. Through innovative learning and development opportunities, you will be provided with a platform to excel, enabling you to exceed your career ambitions and do things you never thought were possible.

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 to all applicants irrespective of sex, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, 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.

For more information or to apply, please contact our Recruitment Team or visit our career page.

Recruitment Agencies

We prioritise direct sourcing and referrals, engaging with our preferred agency partners where support is required. Unsolicited CVs submitted without the prior agreement of the recruitment team will not be deemed a valid introduction. Please contact the recruitment team if you have any questions.