At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex commercial contracts and advise on strategic projects across various sectors.
- Company: Join a top-tier law firm with a collaborative and supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, international secondment opportunities, and career progression towards Legal Director or Partnership.
- Other info: Work closely with clients and mentor junior lawyers in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-profile projects while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: UK-qualified solicitor with 7+ years of commercial contracts experience.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 € per year.
Our national Commercial team brings together our general commercial, digital, IP, energy and renewables and projects and procurement teams. Representing 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 together sector specialists across industries including 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. We also provide a blend of City expertise and local knowledge to inward investors entering the UK.
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.
You will:
- 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 (including USA and Saudi Arabia markets), and contributing to multi‑jurisdictional work. Opportunities for international secondments are available. You will join a collaborative and supportive team, working closely with clients' in‑house teams in an embedded, in‑house style while benefiting from the breadth of private practice and multidisciplinary expertise.
What does the ideal candidate look like? We are looking for a commercially focused senior lawyer who combines technical expertise with leadership and client development capability. To be successful you will have the 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.
You will be proactive, collaborative and client‑focused, with the ability to build your profile, generate work and contribute to the growth of the practice. This role is a key step towards Legal Director or Partnership.
Managing Associate - Commercial employer: Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP
As a leading player in the legal sector, our company offers an exceptional work environment for Managing Associates in Commercial law, particularly in our vibrant Newcastle, Leeds, Bristol, or Southampton offices. We pride ourselves on a collaborative culture that fosters professional growth through mentorship and international secondment opportunities, while also providing access to high-profile clients and complex projects that drive meaningful impact across various industries. Join us to be part of a dynamic team where your expertise will be valued, and your career can flourish.
Contact Detail:
Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Associate - Commercial
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Ace the Interview
Prepare for your interviews by researching the company and understanding their values and projects. We recommend practising common interview questions and even doing mock interviews with friends. Show them you’re not just a great lawyer, but also a great fit for their team!
✨Follow Up
After your interview, don’t forget to send a thank-you email! It’s a simple gesture that shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds. We believe this small step can make a big difference in how they perceive you as a candidate.
✨Apply Through Our Website
When you find a role that excites you, 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 are genuinely interested in joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Associate - Commercial
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Managing Associate role. Highlight your commercial contracts experience and any leadership roles you've had, as we want to see how you can contribute to our team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about commercial law and how your background aligns with our team's focus on advanced manufacturing and energy transition initiatives.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of successful projects or transactions you've led. We love to see how you've made an impact in your previous roles, especially in high-value transactions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to join our collaborative team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP
✨Know Your Commercial Contracts Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of commercial contracts, especially in areas like procurement and supply chain. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience where you've successfully navigated complex transactions.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Managing Associate, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and mentor junior lawyers. Prepare to share instances where you've taken charge of a project or guided a team through challenges, highlighting your leadership style and approach.
✨Be Business-Focused
The role requires delivering pragmatic, business-focused advice. Think about how you've balanced legal considerations with client needs in previous roles. Be prepared to discuss how you identify risks and propose solutions that align with business objectives.
✨Engage in Business Development Conversations
Since this position involves contributing to business development, come equipped with ideas on how to grow client relationships and pursue new opportunities. Show your enthusiasm for building connections and your understanding of the market, especially in sectors like energy and advanced manufacturing.
