Non-Contentious Construction Associate to Managing Associate

Non-Contentious Construction Associate to Managing Associate - Bristol, Birmingham, Nottingham, Leeds, Sheffield or Manchester

Freeths – Birmingham, England, United Kingdom (roles also available in Bristol, Birmingham, Nottingham, Leeds, Sheffield or Manchester)

The Freeths national Construction & Engineering team covers all aspects of the built environment and process plant, from infrastructure to commercial and residential buildings, offices, retail, logistics and production facilities. We are a team of 28 construction and engineering law specialists who cover both the “front end” of projects – drafting and negotiating the documents – and dealing with disputes which can arise on construction projects, whether via negotiation and settlement or more formal dispute resolution procedures.

The national team is led by Chris Holwell, a Leading Partner for Construction in The Legal 500 (2025 edition) and a Leading Individual in Chambers & Partners (2025 edition). Our clients include some of the best‑known names in the construction & engineering industry, and we have an excellent reputation across the UK. We act for public and private sector employers, contractors, funds, consultants and sub‑contractors.

The team is in expansion mode and is looking for Non-contentious Construction lawyers who can be based from any of our regional offices, particularly Bristol, Birmingham, Nottingham, Sheffield, Leeds and Manchester. The role involves drafting and amending building & engineering contracts including all versions of the JCT suite of contracts, NEC and institutional forms of contract and MF/1 forms of contracts.

You will also advise on the drafting and amendments of consultant’s appointments (industry standard and bespoke), warranties, bonds, guarantees, development & funding agreements, agreements for leases, novation agreements and ancillary project documentation.

Applications are invited from lawyers who have trained and qualified with a recognised construction team and have experience of non-contentious construction work or a mix of contentious and advisory work. Ideally you will have between 2‑10 years PQE, although we encourage applications from all levels as the team is in growth mode.

• Work to a consistently high level and provide an exemplary level of client service and care.
• Exercise competent financial management and commercial awareness, including accurate time recording, billing, achievement of firm‑delivered targets and management of WIP.
• Contribute actively toward business development opportunities to ensure the retention of existing clients and expansion of business.
• Maintain up‑to‑date technical expertise at all times.
• Be accountable for personal development and continuously develop interpersonal and soft skills.
• Exhibit competence in accordance with the SRA competence standards.
• Carry out any other reasonable tasks that may be required from time to time.

• Have directly relevant previous experience and the correct level of post‑qualified experience (PQE) for the role.
• Strong commercial acumen and understanding of the industry and the client’s business.
• Proven track record of competent financial management, ability to meet client expectations and sound case‑management skills.
• Good IT skills, experience and confidence with using case‑management systems, electronic time recording and general Microsoft packages.
• Self‑starting, friendly individual with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Consistently demonstrate and embody the firm’s values.

If you’re someone who cares deeply, communicates openly and collaborates effectively, we’d love to have you join our team.

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