Senior Associate – Construction Disputes – Bristol – 5+ PQE

Overview

Senior Associate in the Construction & Engineering Disputes and Risk team in Bristol, handling high‑value, contentious construction matters across the UK and abroad. You’ll advise on building safety issues, manage complex disputes including PFI projects, and oversee portfolio disputes in residential and energy developments. The role blends technical delivery with client relationship management and development of the team, in a supportive, hybrid environment. This is an opportunity to shape risk advice and contribute to business development within a top UK law firm.

Pay / Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Generous benefits package
• Clear career progression pathways
• Robust technical training
• Hybrid working model
• Early responsibility and client exposure

Responsibilities

• Manage a varied caseload of construction and engineering disputes
• Advise on building safety issues (fire and structural safety)
• Handle disputes from major projects (including PFI) UK and international
• Manage portfolio disputes in residential and energy developments
• Provide practical, commercially focused risk advice in construction/engineering
• Supervise junior colleagues and contribute to team development
• Support business development and client relationship building

Key requirements

• 5+ years PQE in contentious construction matters (Senior Associate level)
• Strong technical expertise and understanding of construction issues
• Experience managing complex disputes and supervising juniors
• Excellent communication and client relationship skills
• Proactive approach to learning, business development, and sector knowledge
• Ability to work collaboratively across offices and teams

• Excellent communication
• Client relationship management
• Collaborative mindset
• Contentious construction expertise
• Building safety knowledge
• Risk assessment and advisory for construction/engineering projects

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