Job Description

Associate – Commercial Disputes Lawyer

Location: Manchester

Salary: £70,000 to £80,000

Experience: 3+ PQE (Commercial Disputes)

This is a brilliant opportunity for a Commercial Disputes Associate to join a top tier disputes practice in Manchester. You will work closely with highly regarded Partners on a varied, high calibre caseload, with genuine scope to develop your profile, deepen your technical expertise, and progress your career.

The team is known for its commercial, solutions-led approach to complex disputes, combining formal proceedings with strategic use of ADR.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Supporting and running a varied caseload of commercial disputes matters

• Drafting clear, persuasive pleadings, witness evidence, applications, and correspondence

• Assisting on complex, high-value disputes including multi-party and cross-border elements

• Advising clients on strategy, risk, and settlement options, with a commercial and pragmatic approach

• Working with colleagues across practice areas to understand underlying transactions and deliver joined-up advice

• Attending mediations, hearings, and other dispute resolution forums as required

• Contributing to business development, marketing, and client relationship activity

• Supporting knowledge sharing, training, and continuous improvement within the team

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• Qualified Solicitor with 3+ years’ PQE in commercial disputes / dispute resolution

• Strong technical grounding and a practical, commercial approach

• Excellent drafting and communication skills

• Confidence working to deadlines in a busy environment

• A collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively with colleagues across offices and jurisdictions

• Interest in business development and building long-term client relationships

Desirable

• Experience of ADR (including negotiation and mediation)

• Exposure to specialist disputes areas (for example finance, fraud, construction, insurance, IT, IP, competition, property, tax or pensions disputes)

• Experience supporting complex transactions alongside contentious work

What’s On Offer

• Salary of £70,000 to £80,000

• High calibre work with a leading disputes team

• Clear progression and structured development support

• Strong training, mentoring, and opportunities to build your profile

• A supportive, collaborative culture with like-minded colleagues

About Our Client

Our client is a top tier, full-service law firm with a strong disputes reputation in the UK and internationally. The Manchester team is recognised for its commercial and innovative approach to resolving business disputes, acting for a broad client base including major corporates, public sector bodies, and high net worth individuals.

Location & Working Arrangements

• Manchester

• Full-time, permanent role

Next Steps

Apply online or send your CV to  lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com  or call 0333 996 2882 for more information.

All applications will be handled in strict confidence.