Job Description
Senior/Principal Associate – Commercial Education
Location: Cambridge
Competitive Salary & Benefits
A story of growth, purpose and sector‑leading impact.
A national firm with a genuine heartbeat in the education sector is searching for its next Senior or Principal Associate, someone who thrives on complex commercial work, values long‑term client partnerships and wants to shape the future of education law. This is an opportunity to step into a team trusted by over 100 universities and world‑leading education‑focused corporates, delivering advice that influences institutions across the UK and internationally.
The Role – Where Your Expertise Meets Meaningful Work
This is not a typical commercial role. It sits at the centre of a thriving national education practice, advising on high‑profile, strategically important projects that help universities and educational organisations grow, innovate and operate globally.
You will work on a diverse, stimulating caseload, including:
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* Negotiating commercial agreements for overseas university branch campuses in India, China and Southeast Asia
* Advising on collaborations, partnerships and joint ventures
* Drafting nomination, validation and franchise agreements
* Handling a wide range of commercial contracts, including outsourcing arrangements
* You’ll collaborate closely with the national education sector team, as well as commercial and corporate colleagues across the firm joining a group that values shared success and collective expertise.
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The Person – A Commercial LAWYER with Curiosity and Drive
The firm is seeking a commercial Solicitor with 6+ years’ PQE, ideally with experience advising education‑sector clients—or a genuine enthusiasm to develop in this space.
You will bring:
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* Strong commercial law experience and technical competence
* Excellent drafting skills and attention to detail
* The ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative national team
* A proactive, client‑focused mindset
* Confidence in delivering commercially focused, practical advice
* Willingness to support business development and client training
* Experience in charity law is advantageous, reflecting the nature of many education‑sector clients
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Why This Role Stands Out
This is a role for someone who wants to be part of a forward‑thinking, people‑centred firm, one that invests in its Lawyers and empowers them to achieve more.
The role offers:
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* A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
* A culture built on ambition, openness, care and collaboration
* Recognition as a Sunday Times Best Place to Work and Platinum Investors in people firm
* The chance to work with a top‑50 UK law firm that genuinely values its people and its purpose
* Here, you’re not just joining a team, you’re joining a firm that believes in achieving more, together
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A Final Note
Applications may close early due to high interest. If this role speaks to your experience and ambition, early application is strongly encouraged.
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