Associate – Contentious Construction – Exeter – 3+ Years PQE

Overview

In Exeter, you will handle high-value, contentious construction disputes across energy and development projects within a leading national practice. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to provide strategic advice and manage complex proceedings, including litigation, adjudication, and arbitration. The role offers training, development, and support from a specialist Knowledge Lawyer, with exposure to prestigious clients. This is an opportunity to shape dispute strategies and contribute to the growth of the construction team in a collaborative, resource-rich environment.

Pay / Benefits

• hybrid working arrangements
• structured professional development
• supportive team environment
• opportunity to work with prestigious national and international clients
• cross-departmental resources
• clear career progression

Responsibilities

• Manage a varied caseload of contentious construction matters, including litigation, adjudication, arbitration, and mediation
• Advise on contract management, dispute avoidance, and project-specific strategies
• Collaborate with Real Estate, Corporate, Commercial and Planning teams to deliver cross-disciplinary guidance
• Engage directly with clients from the outset and contribute to high-value, complex disputes
• Support ongoing training and professional development with senior knowledge resources
• Work across a broad range of projects including commercial development, utilities, renewables, and facilities management

Key requirements

• 3+ years PQE in contentious construction
• Strong experience in adjudication and court litigation
• Excellent communication and ability to deliver commercial advice
• Meticulous drafting and high attention to detail
• Experience with JCT and NEC contracts; familiarity with professional appointments
• Exposure to adjudication, arbitration, and expert determination
• Ability to manage complex disputes and advise on strategy and contract interpretation
• Collaborative mindset and ability to build lasting client relationships
• Genuine interest in construction and infrastructure sector
• Motivation and ambition to contribute to team growth

• clear communication
• commercial acumen
• attention to detail
• adjudication
• court litigation
• contract interpretation

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