At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex commercial contracts and advise on strategic projects across various sectors.
- Company: Join a top-tier legal team supporting high-profile clients and impactful projects.
- Benefits: Opportunities for international secondments and career progression to Legal Director or Partnership.
- Other info: Inclusive recruitment process welcoming diverse applicants and providing necessary adjustments.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your skills in a dynamic, supportive environment.
- Qualifications: UK-qualified solicitor with 7+ years of commercial contracts experience and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
Our national Commercial team brings together our general commercial, digital, IP, energy and renewables, projects and procurement teams to support an impressive range of FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 clients, public sector organisations, educational institutions and industry bodies on high-profile, business‑critical projects and regulatory matters. The team plays a vital role in helping clients achieve growth and success. One of the largest and most successful teams of its type, we bring sector specialists across advanced manufacturing, life sciences, aerospace and defence, energy and renewables, transport and logistics and international trade. With lawyers across our UK offices and nationally recognised leaders in their fields, we work closely with US colleagues and Lex Mundi firms worldwide to deliver seamless support on international projects.
To support our strong pipeline, we are seeking an experienced commercial contracts lawyer to join our Newcastle, Leeds, Bristol or Southampton office at Managing Associate level.
What does the team do?
We advise on the full range of contractual arrangements supporting strategic projects and day‑to‑day business across multiple sectors, with a particular focus on advanced manufacturing and energy transition initiatives.
Your role
- Lead on complex commercial contracts, including procurement, outsourcing, supply chain and product development.
- Advise on contract strategy, drafting, negotiation and risk management.
- Deliver pragmatic, business‑focused advice (including data protection with specialist support).
As a Managing Associate, you will take responsibility for leading matters and client relationships, supervising and developing junior lawyers, and ensuring high‑quality delivery across multiple projects. You will also play an active role in business development—building client relationships, identifying and pursuing new opportunities, supporting international growth, and contributing to multi‑jurisdictional work. Opportunities for international secondments are available.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements:
- UK‑qualified solicitor (England, Wales or Scotland) with 7+ years strong commercial contracts experience.
- Significant experience advising on complex, high‑value transactions.
- Excellent drafting, negotiation and communication skills.
- Proven ability to lead matters and deliver clear, practical advice to non‑lawyers.
Key strengths at Managing Associate level:
- Deep expertise across commercial contracts, including supply chain, procurement and strategic projects.
- Ability to supervise, mentor and develop junior team members.
- Strong commercial awareness and ability to identify risks and solutions for clients.
- Active contribution to business development and growing client relationships.
- Confidence managing multiple complex matters and working with autonomy.
Experience of international contracting (including import/export) and exposure to tech, IP or data protection would be beneficial. This role is a key step towards Legal Director or Partnership.
Equal Opportunity & Accessibility
We are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible to all. If you have a disability or long‑term condition and need adjustments to ensure the best possible recruitment experience, please let us know. We also offer an interview scheme for eligible candidates and provide this job advert and application form in alternative formats upon request. We encourage applicants from all social backgrounds, ethnicities, disabilities, gender identities and sexual orientations.
Managing Associate - Commercial in Leeds employer: Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP
As a leading national firm, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. With a strong focus on professional development, our Managing Associates benefit from mentorship opportunities, international secondments, and the chance to work on high-profile projects across diverse sectors. Located in vibrant cities like Newcastle, Leeds, Bristol, and Southampton, we offer a dynamic environment where innovation meets tradition, making us an exceptional employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
Contact Details:
Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Associate - Commercial in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its recent projects. We want you to show off your knowledge about their work in advanced manufacturing or energy transition initiatives. This will help you stand out as a candidate who’s genuinely interested and informed.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Managing Associate, you’ll need to lead on complex contracts. We suggest role-playing with a friend or mentor to get comfortable discussing terms and conditions. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel in real situations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Associate - Commercial in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Managing Associate role. Highlight your experience in commercial contracts and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with what we do!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Managing Associate, you'll be leading matters and mentoring junior lawyers. Use your application to demonstrate your leadership experience and how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past.
Be Clear and Concise:When drafting your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-structured applications that get straight to the point—just like we do with our clients.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP
✨Know Your Contracts Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of complex commercial contracts, especially in areas like procurement and supply chain. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your experience where you've successfully navigated contract negotiations or risk management.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Managing Associate, you'll be expected to lead and mentor junior lawyers. Prepare to share instances where you've taken charge of a project or guided a team through challenges. Highlight your ability to deliver clear, practical advice to clients and colleagues alike.
✨Demonstrate Business Acumen
This role requires strong commercial awareness. Think about how you've identified risks and solutions in past projects. Be prepared to discuss how your legal expertise has contributed to business development and client relationships, particularly in high-value transactions.
✨Be Ready for International Insights
If you have experience with international contracting or exposure to tech, IP, or data protection, make sure to bring it up. The interviewers will appreciate your understanding of global markets and how it can benefit their clients, especially in multi-jurisdictional work.
