Mid-Level Associate And A Senior Associate – Dispute Resolution

Baker McKenzie; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading international law firm is seeking Mid-Level and Senior Associates to join their Johannesburg office. Candidates will focus on international arbitration and investigations, advising clients on complex cross-border disputes. The role offers substantial exposure to diverse legal systems, and candidates should possess strong analytical abilities and previous experience in international dispute resolution.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

Professional development opportunities

Secondment opportunities

Qualifications

• Strong experience in international dispute resolution or investigations.
• Advanced legal analysis and strategic thinking.
• Candidates returning from international roles or studies are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Advising clients on international commercial arbitrations and investigations.
• Drafting pleadings, witness statements, and expert submissions.
• Collaborating globally on cross-border matters.

Skills

Analytical skills

Oral advocacy skills

Commercial awareness

Education

Strong academic record in law

Additional qualifications in international law or arbitration

Job description

We are looking for a Mid-Level Associate and a Senior Associate to join our global International Arbitration and Investigations practice in Johannesburg. This is a unique opportunity to work on high-profile, cross-border disputes and investigations as part of a globally integrated team. You will be involved in matters spanning multiple jurisdictions and industries, offering exposure to some of the most complex and cutting-edge legal challenges in the field.

You will advise clients on international commercial arbitrations, investment treaty disputes, and investigations. The role requires advanced legal analysis, strategic thinking, and the ability to operate effectively across diverse legal systems and cultural contexts.

Key Responsibilities, Experience and Skills Required

Key Responsibilities

• Acting in international arbitrations under major institutional rules (ICC, LCIA, DIAC, ICSID,AFSA, UNCITRAL)
• Working on multi-jurisdictional investigations involving regulatory authorities, internal compliance, and asset recovery
• Drafting pleadings, witness statements, and expert submissions
• Examining witnesses and presenting oral arguments before international tribunals
• Collaborating with colleagues across our global network on cross-border matters

Experience

• Strong experience in international dispute resolution or investigations, gained through legalpractice, judicial clerkships, or academic research at mid-level or senior associate level
• We welcome applications from both attorneys and advocates with relevant training andexpertise

Academic and Professional Background

• A strong academic record in law
• Additional qualifications in international law, arbitration, or related fields are advantageous
• Candidates returning from international roles or studies are encouraged to apply

Skills and Attributes

• Excellent analytical and drafting skills, with the ability to distil complex legal and factual issues
• Strong oral advocacy skills or a demonstrated interest in developing them
• Commercial awareness and the ability to deliver practical, business-oriented advice
• A global mindset and sensitivity to different legal systems and cultural context

Why Join Us?

Baker McKenzie is a truly global law firm. Founded in 1949, we advise many of the world’s most dynamic and successful business organisations through our 13,200 people in 78 offices in 46 countries. Yet big does not mean impersonal. We work hard to ensure that everyone knows their role and has the support they need to perform it to the highest standard. Our culture encourages this - how we work, think and behave in a collaborative and fulfilling way.

In Johannesburg you will be part of an office with over 100 people. Originally opened in 2012, Baker McKenzie South Africa is well established in South Africa as a leading international law firm and is regularly involved in some of the country's most high-profile legal matters. We can offer you the work,pride and experience of being part of a leading law firm but in a local office environment that is hardworking, yet friendly and supportive.

There are regular opportunities for secondments with clients and to other offices under the firm's associate exchange programme.

We offer a highly competitive, market-related salary based on experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package and exceptional professional development opportunities.

At Baker McKenzie we welcome direct applications. Your CV, academic transcripts and cover letter outlining your interest in international arbitration and investigations.

For more information about this position or to discuss any adjustments you may require during the process please contact, in confidence, Boipelo Soko, Recruitment Manager on Please note that Baker McKenzie does not accept unsolicited CVs.

Our Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion

Baker McKenzie has a culture of diversity and inclusion in its DNA – since our beginning, the differences of our people have helped us to work fluently across borders, cultures and practices. This is intrinsic to everything we do and underpins Baker McKenzie's vision to be the global law firm of choice. Weunderstand that organisations work best when people with different backgrounds and points of view are brought together. We also know people perform at their best when they can be themselves at work. Baker McKenzie is committed to serving our clients with innovative solutions brought about by a diverse talent pool and an inclusive community.

The Johannesburg office mirrors the wider firm in encouraging the best people, regardless of race, culture, religion or belief (if any), gender, gender identity and expression, disability, sexual orientation or age, to fulfil their professional aspirations with us so as to create an exciting and diverse legal environment.