Senior Corporate Solicitor

VanRath; Belfast; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading law firm in Northern Ireland is looking for a Senior Associate Solicitor to join its prestigious Corporate & M&A team. The role involves leading complex transactions, advising on corporate governance, and mentoring junior solicitors. The ideal candidate has strong corporate experience and aspirations for partnership, along with a competitive salary package that exceeds market norms. This position offers a dynamic work environment and genuine potential for career progression.

Benefits

Attractive salary package

Progression pathways

Collaborative environment

Qualifications

• 5+ years PQE at a commercial firm.
• Proven track record of leading mid-to-large size deals.
• Experience supervising junior team members.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support on complex corporate transactions.
• Provide strategic advice on corporate governance.
• Manage a portfolio of clients.

Skills

Corporate / M&A experience

Strong drafting and negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Excellent communication

Leadership experience

Education

Qualified Solicitor

Job description

Senior Associate Solicitor - Corporate / M&A

About the Role We are partnering with a top-tier commercial law firm in Northern Ireland to recruit a Senior Associate Solicitor for its highly regarded Corporate & M&A team. This is a rare opportunity to join a leading practice advising on the most significant and complex transactions across the region – and to play a key part in its continued growth and success.

Why This Opportunity Is Exceptional

• Market-Leading Corporate Practice: The firm's Corporate & M&A team is the largest in Northern Ireland
• High-Profile Deals: Work on cross-border, domestic, and private equity transactions for global companies, family businesses, PE/VC sponsors, and financial institutions.
• Full-Service Platform: The team offers a full spectrum of corporate legal services – from initial formation, governance and board matters, through to M&A, private equity investments, and exits.
• Ambition and Growth: This role is ideal for someone with partnership aspirations, who wants to develop within a senior, high-performing team that is growing rapidly.
• Exceptional Remuneration: The firm recognises the value of top talent. Pay will be ahead of market competitors, because they are determined to attract the right person for this pivotal role.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support on complex corporate transactions, including M&A, private equity investments, joint ventures, reorganisations, and exits.
• Provide strategic advice on corporate governance, shareholder agreements, group restructuring, and company law.
• Manage a portfolio of clients – from multinational corporations to owner‑managed businesses – building sustainable relationships.
• Supervise and mentor junior solicitors, supporting their development and contribution to deal teams.
• Collaborate with other practice areas to deliver seamless, multidisciplinary advice.
• Contribute to business development initiatives: pitch writing, thought leadership, and client events.

Candidate Profile

• Qualified Solicitor with strong corporate / M&A experience, ideally with 5+ years PQE at a commercial firm.
• Proven track record of leading mid‑to‑large size deals.
• Strong drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills with a commercial mindset.
• Excellent communication and client management ability, including board‑level engagement.
• A proactive leader with experience supervising junior team members and a genuine interest in progressing toward partnership.
• Strong business development skills and strategic insight.

What You'll Get

• Access to high‑value, complex corporate matters.
• A senior role in a market‑leading team, with genuine potential for partnership.
• A salary package ahead of market norms, tailored to attract exceptional talent.
• Clear progression pathways, exceptional training, and strong leadership support.
• A dynamic, collaborative environment within a rapidly expanding practice.

For further information on this job, or any other Legal job in Belfast or Northern Ireland, apply via the link or contact Ciaran Gallagher for a confidential chat today.

VANRATH acts as an agency and employment business for permanent recruitment and the supply of temporary workers.