At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead digital transformation projects and manage complex legal transactions.
- Company: Dynamic law firm with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Flexible working, health initiatives, and a supportive culture.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with clear pathways for career progression.
- Why this job: Join a team shaping the future of digital and commercial law.
- Qualifications: UK-qualified solicitor with strong experience in commercial and digital law.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 66000 £ per year.
Our national General Commercial, Digital & Technology team is growing. Bringing together our general commercial, digital, IP, energy and renewables, and projects and procurement capability, we advise FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 companies, public sector bodies, educational institutions and industry organisations on high-profile, business-critical projects and regulatory matters.
Working at the forefront of digital transformation, advanced manufacturing, energy transition, life sciences, aerospace and defence, transport and logistics and international trade, our team plays a vital role in helping clients innovate, compete and grow. With nationally recognised leaders across our UK offices—and close collaboration with our US colleagues and Lex Mundi firms worldwide—we deliver seamless support on complex, multi-jurisdictional matters and international transactions.
To support a strong pipeline, we are seeking an experienced Commercial/Digital lawyer to join our Bristol, Southampton, Leeds or Newcastle office at Managing Associate level.
What does the team do?
You will work across a broad range of commercial and digital matters, including:
- Technology & Digital Transformation
- Complex technology transactions and transformation programmes
- Software licensing, IT services, procurement and outsourcing
- Data protection, privacy, cyber security and generative AI adoption
- Commercial Contracts & Strategic Projects
- End-to-end commercial arrangements and strategic projects
- Supply chain, procurement, product development and routes to market
- Energy transition, decarbonisation and advanced manufacturing initiatives
You will lead matters and client relationships, managing transactions from contract strategy and negotiation through to risk and regulatory advice. You will supervise and develop junior lawyers, ensure high-quality delivery, and play a key role in resourcing and team performance.
You will also contribute to business development—building client relationships, identifying opportunities, promoting the firm's services and supporting growth in international markets (including the USA and Saudi Arabia).
What does the ideal candidate look like?
We are looking for a commercially minded senior lawyer who can combine technical excellence with leadership and client development:
To be successful you must possess the minimum requirements:
- UK-qualified solicitor with strong commercial/digital experience
- Significant experience of complex, high-value transactions
- Strong drafting, negotiation and communication skills
- Proven ability to lead matters and manage client relationships
- Key strengths at Managing Associate level
- Deep technical expertise in commercial contracts and/or digital, tech or data
- Ability to supervise, mentor and develop junior lawyers effectively
- Commercial awareness and ability to identify risks and client solutions
- Active contribution to business development and client growth
- Confidence operating with autonomy, managing multiple complex matters
You will be proactive, collaborative and client-focused, with the ability to generate work, build your profile and contribute to the growth of the practice. This is a key progression role with a clear pathway towards Legal Director or Partnership.
What makes it great to work here?
We continually work hard to create an open culture that sets us apart from other firms. Our culture gives us much more of a human feel, emphasising that we're more than just suits!
As signatories to the Mindful Business Charter, it's important to us that our people are able to maintain healthy and happy lives, both in and out of work. We have a number of resources and initiatives designed to support health and wellbeing and we're very happy to talk flexible working.
Through our DEI initiatives we create an environment in which difference is valued. We have a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Group, led by our Board Sponsor, which works with our colleague networks (we currently have firm supported networks for race, ethnicity, and cultural heritage, LGBTQ+, disabilities, neurodiversity, families, and women's career development and we're in constant dialogue with our people about how we expand our networks to better support everybody).
We encourage applicants from all social backgrounds, ethnicities, disabilities, gender identities and sexual orientations. 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 us to make any adjustments to give you the best possible recruitment process, please let us know by contacting the recruiter on the right hand side of this page.
We will offer an interview to candidates with a disability or long-term condition who meet the minimum criteria for this role. You can opt into this scheme within the application form. Your response to this question is only used for this purpose, is only visible to the recruitment team and is not used for data monitoring.
Location: Bristol, Leeds, Newcastle, Southampton
Contract Type: Permanent
Work location: Hybrid
Managing Associate - Digital in Bristol employer: Womble Bond Dickinson
Womble Bond Dickinson is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises diversity, equity, and inclusion. With flexible working arrangements and a strong focus on employee growth, this role as a Pensions Lawyer provides the opportunity to engage with a diverse client base while developing your expertise in pensions law within a collaborative team environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Associate - Digital in Bristol
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
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✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
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We think you need these skills to ace Managing Associate - Digital in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Womble Bond Dickinson, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Womble Bond Dickinson and the specific role of Managing Associate - Digital. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Womble Bond Dickinson’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Womble Bond Dickinson
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Womble Bond Dickinson.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Womble Bond Dickinson.
