At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead on complex commercial contracts and advise clients on strategy and risk management.
- Company: Join a top-tier national Commercial team with a diverse range of high-profile clients.
- Benefits: Opportunities for international secondments and career progression towards Legal Director or Partnership.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities to mentor junior lawyers and contribute to business development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on business-critical projects while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: UK-qualified solicitor with 7+ years in commercial contracts and strong negotiation 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. 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.
Responsibilities
- 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).
- Take responsibility for leading matters and client relationships, supervising and developing junior lawyers, and ensuring high‑quality delivery across multiple projects.
- 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.
Qualifications
- UK‑qualified solicitor (England, Wales or Scotland) with 7+ years of 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.
Managing Associate - Commercial employer: Womble Bond Dickinson
As a leading player in the legal sector, our company offers an exceptional work environment that fosters professional growth and collaboration. With a strong focus on employee development, we provide opportunities for international secondments and mentorship from industry leaders, ensuring that our team members thrive in their careers. Our Newcastle, Leeds, Bristol, and Southampton offices are not only strategically located but also embody a vibrant work culture that values innovation and teamwork, making us an attractive employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Associate - Commercial
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its recent projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your knowledge of their work and how you can contribute to their success. Tailor your answers to reflect their values and goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Managing Associate, you’ll need to lead on complex contracts. Role-play common scenarios with friends or mentors to build your confidence. The more prepared you are, the better you’ll perform in real situations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got a range of exciting opportunities waiting for you. Plus, it’s a great way to show your enthusiasm for joining our team. Let’s make this happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Associate - Commercial
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Managing Associate role. Highlight your experience with complex commercial contracts and any relevant projects you've led. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about joining our Commercial team and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Keep it engaging and professional, but let your personality show!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of how you've successfully managed contracts or developed client relationships. We love seeing quantifiable results that demonstrate your impact.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Womble Bond Dickinson
✨Know Your Commercial Contracts Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of commercial contracts, especially in areas like procurement and outsourcing. 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 be expected to lead and mentor junior lawyers. Prepare to share instances where you've taken charge of a project or guided a team, highlighting your ability to deliver high-quality results while developing others.
✨Demonstrate Business Acumen
This role requires a strong understanding of business development. Think about how you've contributed to client relationships or identified new opportunities in previous roles. Be prepared to discuss your approach to balancing legal advice with practical business solutions.
✨Prepare for International Insights
Given the global nature of the role, it’s essential to have a grasp of international contracting and markets. Familiarise yourself with any relevant experiences you have in this area, particularly regarding the USA and Saudi Arabia, and be ready to discuss how you can leverage that knowledge.
