Corporate Senior Associate Lawyer - Newcastle - 5+PQE

QED Legal LLP; Newcastle upon Tyne; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A progressive law firm in Newcastle is seeking a Senior Associate to lead complex corporate matters including M&A and fundraising. The ideal candidate will have 5–7 years of PQE in corporate law and a strong track record in managing client relationships. The firm offers a supportive culture with competitive salaries, hybrid working arrangements, and opportunities for career progression.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Hybrid working arrangements

Comprehensive benefits package

Opportunity for career progression

Inclusive culture

Qualifications

• 5+–7+ PQE in corporate or commercial M&A work.
• Proven experience of handling M&A, investment deals, and reorganisations.
• Motivated to build client relationships and thrive in a collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and drive complex corporate matters including M&A and fundraising.
• Act for owner-managed businesses and provide commercial advice.
• Take ownership of client relationships and mentor junior fee-earners.

Skills

Commercial mindset

Strong drafting skills

Negotiating skills

Client-facing ability

Education

Qualified Solicitor

Job description

Senior Associate – Corporate Newcastle | Full-time | Corporate Team

We’re working with a progressive, full-service law firm in Newcastle, boasting a strong reputation for partner‑led advice, exceptional client service and genuine client understanding. Their Corporate practice acts for dynamic businesses across sectors like technology, manufacturing, life sciences and finance.

The Role

You’ll join a growing team with national reach and regional roots. You will:

• Lead and drive complex corporate matters — from M&A, fundraising and joint-ventures to reorganisations, succession planning and capital structures.
• Act for owner‑managed businesses, entrepreneurs, corporates and VC/PE backed companies — providing commercial, practical and strategic advice.
• Take ownership of client relationships, lead on transactions end-to-end, and mentor junior fee‑earners.
• Work within an entrepreneurial culture that values initiative, business development and real involvement across teams.

About You

• Qualified Solicitor with c. 5+–7+ PQE (or equivalent) in corporate or commercial M&A work.
• Proven experience of handling transactions: e.g., M&A, investment deals, reorganisations, joint ventures or venture capital.
• Commercial mindset, strong drafting and negotiating skills, and confident client‑facing ability.
• Motivated to build client relationships, contribute to business development and thrive in a collaborative yet ambitious environment.
• Based in (or willing to relocate/commute to) Newcastle and keen to play a strategic role in a well‑regarded regional firm.

Why This Role Stands Out

• You’ll join a firm where quality of advice, client service and teamwork are at the heart of what they do — not just targets or billable hours.
• Strong growth trajectory: the corporate team is engaged in high-value work across sectors and the firm supports progression and visibility.
• You get genuine autonomy alongside strong firm infrastructure: you’ll be able to lead, drive and develop while supported by a respected team.
• Great regional base: in Newcastle, offering access to national-level work without sacrificing work‑life balance.

Benefits & Rewards

• Competitive salary — aligned with level and experience.
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements — supporting modern lifestyles.
• Comprehensive benefits package (incl. pension scheme, holiday allowance, professional development support).
• Opportunity to advance: real progression path from Senior Associate towards Partner, within a firm committed to your growth.
• Entrepreneurial and inclusive culture — focused on teamwork, value‑added advice and high calibre client work.

Interested?

If you’re a corporate solicitor with ambition, transaction experience and a desire to be part of a growing, dynamic team in the North East — please reach out to Beth at QED Legal via the details provided for a confidential discussion.