Lead Associate

Fitch Learning; Remote; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consulting firm in Greater London is seeking a Chartered Architect with over 10 years of experience to act as lead expert in architectural disputes and provide technical advisory services. Candidates should possess strong communication skills and a proven track record in expert witness work, particularly in the residential, healthcare, and commercial sectors. This role offers flexibility in remote working and opportunities for global travel, along with continuous professional development and mentorship from industry leaders.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Mentorship from industry experts

Flexibility of remote working

Opportunities for global travel

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years post-qualification experience as a Chartered Architect.
• Experience in giving evidence or preparing reports for dispute resolution.
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks and construction contracts.

Responsibilities

• Prepare expert reports for litigation, arbitration, and mediation.
• Undertake forensic analysis of design and construction documentation.
• Provide technical advisory services to clients in various sectors.
• Support business development through client engagement and industry participation.

Skills

Strong technical knowledge of building design

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Experience across residential, healthcare, and commercial sectors

Proven track record in expert witness work

Education

Chartered Architect (ARB/RIBA)

LLM or MSc in Construction Law or Arbitration

Tools

Revit

ArchiCAD

Job description

Essential Job Functions

Act as lead expert or assistant in disputes involving architectural design, construction defects, professional negligence, and regulatory compliance.

• Prepare expert reports for use in litigation, arbitration, adjudication, and mediation, including CPR Part 35 compliant reports.
• Undertake forensic analysis of design documentation, construction records, and site conditions to identify causation and liability.
• Provide technical advisory services to clients including insurers, developers, housing associations, and legal teams.
• Contribute to the development of remedial strategies, including feasibility assessments and specification and design drawings for costing.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including fire engineers, façade consultants, and quantity surveyors.
• Support business development through client engagement, thought leadership, and participation in industry forums.

Required Experience, Education, and Certifications

• Chartered Architect (ARB/RIBA) with a minimum of 10 years post‑qualification experience.
• Proven track record in expert witness work, including giving evidence or preparing reports for formal dispute resolution.
• Strong technical knowledge of building design, construction detailing, and regulatory frameworks (e.g. Building Regulations, fire safety, CDM).
• Experience across a range of building types, particularly residential, healthcare, and commercial sectors.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical issues clearly and persuasively.
• Familiarity with consultant appointments, procurement routes, and construction contracts.

Desirable Attributes

• Membership of The Academy of Experts (AMAE) or similar professional body.
• LLM or MSc or equivalent qualification in Construction Law or Arbitration.
• Experience in drone‑assisted building surveys and digital inspection technologies.
• Experience with Revit and or ArchiCAD.

Why Join Us

Be mentored by industry‑leading experts in engineering and construction law.

Work on high‑profile international disputes and expert witness appointments.

Access to continuous professional development and advanced legal/technical training.

Enjoy the flexibility of remote working with opportunities for global travel.

Join a culture that values integrity, accountability, commitment, and teamwork.

About Rimkus

Rimkus (www.rimkus.com) is a worldwide leader in Engineering and Technical Consulting. Our experts specialise in building envelope, engineering, forensic consulting, dispute resolution, construction management services, and solutions built for the environment.

Diversity and Inclusion

At Rimkus, we value a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. We are committed to creating a work environment that supports and celebrates the unique perspectives and experiences of all employees. If you share our commitment to diversity and inclusivity and are excited about joining a welcoming and supportive team, we encourage you to apply for our open positions. We are an equal‑opportunity employer.

Equal‑Opportunity Statement

Rimkus is an equal‑opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of age, disability, gender identity or expression, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. We make hiring decisions based on merit, experience, and business need, and we actively encourage applicants to request any reasonable adjustments required during the recruitment process.