Managing Associate / Legal Director - Contentious Construction (7PQE+)

Lynx Employment Services Ltd; Leeds; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A top-tier law firm in Leeds is seeking an experienced Contentious Construction Lawyer, ideally a Managing Associate or Legal Director with 7+ years PQE. The role involves leading high-value disputes, providing client advice across various contract frameworks, and supervising junior team members. This position offers a chance to work within a large, respected team renowned for its excellence in construction law and exceptional client service.

Benefits

Career progression

Collaborative culture

Autonomy in role

Qualifications

• At least 7 years' PQE in contentious construction.
• Experience at a leading construction or real estate practice.
• Proven ability to manage large-scale disputes.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex contentious construction matters.
• Advise clients across a range of contractual frameworks.
• Supervise and mentor junior fee earners.

Skills

Contentious construction law

Client relationship management

Business development

Team supervision

Education

Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales)

Minimum 2:1 degree

Job description

Due to the continued success and growth of our client's Construction & Engineering practice, we are seeking an experienced Contentious Construction Lawyer to join the Leeds team. This is an outstanding opportunity for a Managing Associate or Legal Director (7PQE+) to work on high-value, complex construction disputes and to take a leadership role within a top-tier practice.

The role involves advising developers, lenders, landlords, tenants, PPPs, and public sector bodies across a wide range of JCT, NEC, and bespoke contracts. You will be handling a diverse caseload, from strategic dispute resolution and adjudication to managing arbitration and litigation proceedings.

As a senior member of the team, you will also play a pivotal part in client relationship management, business development, and team supervision, helping to drive forward the team's continued expansion and success.

About the Team

Our client's Construction & Engineering team is one of the largest and most respected in the UK, comprising over 100 specialist lawyers, including 26 Partners.

The Leeds team includes 6 Partners and 30+ fee earners, recognised for their technical excellence, commercial approach, and innovative solutions. They are Tier 1 ranked in both Legal 500 and Chambers, reflecting their exceptional reputation in the market.

The team advises on all aspects of construction law, across sectors such as buildings, infrastructure, energy, utilities, and process engineering. Their clients span both the public and private sectors, and they work closely with colleagues in Real Estate, Banking, and Projects to deliver integrated legal solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex contentious construction matters.
• Advise clients across a range of contractual frameworks (JCT, NEC, bespoke terms).
• Supervise and mentor junior fee earners, fostering professional development.
• Collaborate with other practice areas on multidisciplinary projects.
• Contribute to business development and client relationship initiatives.

What We're Looking For

• Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales) with at least 7 years' PQE in contentious construction.
• Strong academic record, ideally with a minimum 2:1 degree.
• Experience gained at a leading construction or real estate practice.
• Proven ability to manage large-scale disputes and deliver high-quality client service.
• Demonstrated capability in leading teams and developing junior talent.
• Commitment to excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Why Apply

• Join a high-performing, cohesive team with an exceptional client base.
• Take on meaningful responsibility for client relationships and leadership.
• Work on high-calibre, high-value matters with leading industry professionals.
• Benefit from a culture that supports autonomy, collaboration, and career progression