Intellectual Property Senior Associate

JMC Legal Recruitment; Bristol; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK law firm seeks a Senior Associate for its Intellectual Property practice in Bristol, focusing on non-contentious IP matters. This role offers high-profile client engagement, providing a unique opportunity to influence a growing practice. The ideal candidate will have at least 6 years' PQE, strong transactional IP experience, and the ability to mentor junior lawyers. Benefits include flexible working arrangements, competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package including up to 30 days’ holiday and private medical insurance.

Benefits

Up to 30 days' holiday

Private medical insurance

Qualifications

• 6+ years' PQE in non-contentious IP.
• Strong track record advising on transactional IP matters.
• Confidence in managing complex matters independently.

Responsibilities

• Advising on IP licensing, assignments, and franchising.
• Structuring ownership rights and exploitation strategies.
• Supporting wider commercial and corporate transactions.

Skills

Excellent drafting and analytical skills

Problem-solving

Client relationship management

Education

Qualified Solicitor (SRA or Law Society of Scotland registered)

Job description

Join a Top-Tier IP Team Driving Innovation Across the UK

A leading UK law firm is seeking a Senior Associate to join its top-ranked Intellectual Property practice in Bristol. This is a standout opportunity for a commercially minded, senior non-contentious IP lawyer to take on complex, high-profile work for some of the country's most recognisable brands. The role offers a clear progression pathway, senior visibility, and the chance to help shape the future of a thriving practice within a strategic growth office.

The Team

Recognised by both Legal 500 and Chambers as top tier in Intellectual Property, the team advises across the full spectrum of non-contentious IP matters. It supports clients from early-stage development through to commercial exploitation, delivering sector-leading advice on licensing, structuring, R&D collaboration, and IP strategy. You'll be part of a 20-strong national team, working alongside respected partners including Helen Scott Lawler and directors like Nisha Kumar in the Bristol office.

The Work

You'll advise a prestigious and diverse client base including household names such as John Lewis, Virgin, Waitrose, and Yeo Valley. Matters typically include:

• IP licensing, assignments, franchising and audits
• Structuring of ownership rights and exploitation strategies
• R&D and collaboration agreements (academic and private sector)
• Support for wider commercial and corporate transactions
• Joint ventures involving complex IP portfolios

This role combines high-quality transactional work with exposure to clients operating at the cutting edge of innovation across sectors.

What They're Looking For

• A qualified solicitor (SRA or Law Society of Scotland registered) with 6+ years' PQE in non-contentious IP
• Strong track record advising on transactional IP matters in a private practice or in-house setting
• Excellent drafting and analytical skills, with a commercial approach to problem-solving
• Confidence in managing complex matters independently, and in mentoring more junior lawyers
• A collaborative mindset, proactive attitude, and the ability to build trusted client relationships

Why This Role?

• Strategic growth location - With the Bristol office a focus for long-term investment, there is genuine opportunity to play a key role in the office's continued growth and influence
• High-profile client work - Engage directly with national and international clients on commercially and technically interesting matters
• Top-tier team culture - Join a team that blends legal excellence with an inclusive, supportive environment
• Progression and visibility - Benefit from a clear path to more senior leadership and regular engagement with senior stakeholders

Flexible Working & Benefits

This firm is proud of its progressive working culture. Flexible working arrangements - including part-time and hybrid models - are fully supported. As a Disability Confident employer, the firm is committed to an accessible recruitment process and actively encourages applicants from all backgrounds.

You'll also receive a competitive salary and benefits package, including up to 30 days' holiday, private medical insurance, and a comprehensive range of wellbeing and lifestyle perks.