At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage legal disputes and provide strategic advice in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Pennon Group, a leader in water and renewables, committed to a greener future.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, annual bonus, flexible working, and healthcare benefits.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse culture that values inclusion and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while shaping your legal career in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: UK-qualified solicitor with 4+ years' experience in civil litigation.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 80000 £ per year.
At Pennon Group, we’re proud to serve communities while protecting the environment. Together with our subsidiaries, we’re leading the way in water and renewables. Our goals include lowering our carbon footprint, planting 300,000 trees, restoring peatlands, and supporting farmers and landowners to improve water quality and wildlife.
The In-House Litigation Lawyer plays a key role in managing and overseeing legal disputes and contentious matters across the business. You will be responsible for handling civil litigation, instructing and managing external counsel, and providing clear, commercially focused legal advice to support the organisation’s strategic objectives. This is an excellent opportunity for a proactive legal professional who enjoys working in a fast-paced, regulated environment.
Key Responsibilities- Manage and oversee civil litigation matters, including nuisance, negligence, property and commercial disputes
- Provide expert legal advice on business risk, statutory duties and regulatory obligations (including water regulations)
- Represent the company in defended debt recovery claims and property damage actions
- Support customer complaint resolution, including engagement with the Consumer Council for Water’s mediation and adjudication processes
- Partner with the Insurance team to respond to third-party recovery claims
- Negotiate, draft and advise on settlements and legal agreements
- Lead legal risk assessments and support internal stakeholders in mitigating exposure
- Stay informed on legal developments and industry trends impacting operations
- Support enforcement actions under the Water Industry Act 1991 and related regulations
- Deliver training to colleagues on key legal and regulatory topics
You are a confident and commercially aware litigation lawyer who thrives on solving complex legal challenges and translating them into practical business advice. You enjoy building strong relationships across an organisation and can operate effectively in a busy, multi-case environment.
Essential Requirements- UK-qualified solicitor with a minimum of 4 years’ PQE
- Strong experience in dispute resolution and the civil litigation process
- Ability to analyse complex legal issues and develop practical, creative solutions
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain legal concepts clearly to non-legal stakeholders
- Experience of criminal litigation processes
- Exposure to regulatory or enforcement matters
- Experience advising within regulated industries
- Strong negotiation skills with a track record of successful dispute resolution
- Strategic mindset, aligning legal advice with business objectives
- Ability to manage multiple matters effectively under pressure
- Clear and concise written and verbal communication
- Collaborative team player with a proactive approach
Join us and help deliver a reliable, high-quality service for our customers across the South West. We believe in rewarding our people for their hard work and dedication. As our In House Lawyer you'll enjoy:
- Competitive Salary – Based on experience and skills
- Annual Bonus Scheme – Recognising company performance
- Pension Scheme – Helping you plan for your future
- Flexible Working Options – We value work-life balance and offer flexible hours and hybrid working where possible
- Healthcare Benefits – Access to employee assistance programs
- Employee Discounts – On various products and services
- Annual Leave – Take time to recharge with our holiday entitlement
Closing Date: 23rd June 2026. We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible. Please note that the successful candidate will be subject to a mandatory DBS check as part of the onboarding process.
Be yourself, we like it that way. Together, we will build a culture of belonging, where inclusion is instinctive. Diversity is our strength and a reflection of our communities. We care, we value everyone, we celebrate uniqueness. Our core values, which are essential to our success, are:
- Be Rock Solid - Build trust and be trusted.
- Be You - We want you to bring your best every day.
- Be the Future - Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.
In-house litigation lawyer in Devon employer: South West Water
At Pennon Group, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where your contributions directly impact our mission to protect the environment and serve communities. With competitive salaries, flexible working options, and a strong focus on employee growth and well-being, we foster a culture of inclusion and collaboration that empowers you to thrive in your career as an In-House Litigation Lawyer. Join us in Exeter or Bristol and be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to making a meaningful difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land In-house litigation lawyer in Devon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who have experience in litigation. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential colleagues and learn more about the company culture at Pennon Group.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of water regulations and recent legal developments. Show us that you’re not just a great lawyer but also someone who understands the unique challenges faced by the water sector.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since the role involves managing disputes and settlements, consider role-playing scenarios with a friend or mentor to refine your approach and boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining our team and making a difference in the water industry.
We think you need these skills to ace In-house litigation lawyer in Devon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the In-House Litigation Lawyer role. Highlight your relevant experience in civil litigation and dispute resolution, and show us how your skills align with our mission at Pennon Group.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since you'll be providing legal advice to non-legal stakeholders, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly. Use straightforward language in your application to reflect this skill.
Highlight Your Proactive Approach:We love candidates who take initiative! Share examples of how you've successfully managed multiple cases or resolved disputes in a fast-paced environment. This will show us that you can thrive in our dynamic setting.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at South West Water
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on civil litigation processes and the specific legal challenges faced by the water industry. Familiarise yourself with relevant regulations and recent case law that could impact Pennon Group's operations.
✨Show Your Commercial Awareness
During the interview, demonstrate how your legal expertise aligns with the company's strategic objectives. Be ready to discuss how you can provide commercially focused legal advice that supports their goals in sustainability and community service.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific legal disputes or regulatory issues. Think through potential scenarios related to nuisance, negligence, or property disputes, and prepare clear, structured responses that showcase your problem-solving skills.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Since you'll need to explain complex legal concepts to non-legal stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Use examples from your past experience where you've successfully communicated legal advice to diverse teams.
