Commercial & IP Associate Solicitor - Exeter

Chadwick Nott; Exeter; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Chadwick Nott in Exeter is assisting a Top 100 UK law firm to recruit an Associate Solicitor into its Public Sector practice. The role focuses on procurement, contracts and subsidy control for local authorities and public bodies, offering exposure to high-value, high-profile matters from day one.

You will work with leading partners, manage your own caseload, and develop strong relationships with clients across the public sector, within a supportive national platform.

Qualifications

• 3-6 years' PQE in public sector or in-house public body.
• Solid public procurement law experience.
• Experience with public sector contracts and subsidies is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Advise public sector clients on procurement law and regulatory frameworks.
• Support on major public projects across a variety of sectors.
• Advise on public sector contracts, grant funding, subsidy control and local authority powers.
• Assist with procurement challenges alongside the firm's disputes specialists.
• Work closely with partners and senior lawyers on high-value and strategically important matters.
• Take responsibility for your own caseload whilst receiving ongoing mentoring and support.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships with a diverse public sector client base.

Skills

Public sector procurement knowledge

Legal drafting

Client relationship management

Commercial awareness

Job description

Commercial & IP Associate Solicitor - Exeter

A highly regarded national law firm is looking to appoint an ambitious Associate Solicitor (3-6 years' PQE) to join its market-leading Public Sector team based in Exeter.

The team is recognised by both Legal 500 and Chambers and advises on some of the UK's most significant public sector projects, acting for local authorities, utilities providers, central government bodies and other public sector organisations.

This is an excellent opportunity for a solicitor looking to develop their expertise in public procurement whilst working alongside recognised experts in the field and building a strong reputation within a thriving national practice.

The Role

As part of a specialist Public Sector team, you will:

• Advise public sector clients on procurement law and regulatory frameworks
• Support on major public projects across a variety of sectors
• Advise on public sector contracts, grant funding, subsidy control and local authority powers
• Assist with procurement challenges alongside the firm's disputes specialists
• Work closely with partners and senior lawyers on high-value and strategically important matters
• Take responsibility for your own caseload whilst receiving ongoing mentoring and support
• Build and maintain strong client relationships with a diverse public sector client base

This role offers genuine exposure to high-quality work from day one and excellent opportunities for career progression.

Candidate Requirements

• 3-6 years' PQE
• Experience advising public sector organisations or experience gained in-house within a public sector body
• Solid public procurement law experience (essential)
• Experience with public sector contracts and/or subsidy control (advantageous but not essential)
• Excellent drafting, analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong commercial awareness and sound judgement
• The confidence to manage client relationships and communicate effectively at all levels

Why Join?

• Join a Top 100 UK law firm with an outstanding reputation in the legal market
• Work within a Legal 500 and Chambers-ranked Public Sector practice
• Gain exposure to nationally significant projects and public sector clients
• Enjoy genuine autonomy and responsibility with strong partner support
• Clear opportunities for professional development and career progression
• Excellent Exeter offices with on-site parking and easy access for commuters
• Be part of a leading regional firm with a strong national presence and an impressive client portfolio

*At Chadwick Nott, we are committed to developing a diverse and inclusive culture as well as supporting our large client network achieve the same. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications of all qualified candidates regardless of their age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, disability, culture or anything other personal characteristic. We champion and celebrate diversity in the workplace. Where a level of experience is indicated, please note that this is only a guideline.*