Powered by Water, Driven by Purpose
At Pennon Group, we're proud to serve communities while protecting the environment. Together with our subsidiaries, South West Water, Bristol Water, Bournemouth Water, SES Water, Pennon Water Services and Pennon Power, we're leading the way in water and renewables.
We're proud to be recognised as a leader in the UK water sector, working towards a greener future. Our goals? As well as lowering our carbon footprint, we're working with partners to plant 300,000 trees, restore peatlands and supporting farmers and landowners to improve water quality and wildlife.
Whether you're starting out or seeking a new challenge, our scale and ambition create opportunities for you to shape your own career.
Ready to make a splash? Join our team today.
In-House Counsel - Litigation
Location: Exeter, EX2 7HR or Bristol, BS13 7AT
Salary: £70,000-£80,000 per annum + excellent benefits
Job Type: Full-time, permanent
The In-House Litigation Lawyer plays a key role in managing and overseeing legal disputes and contentious matters across the business.
You will be responsible for handling civil litigation, instructing and managing external counsel, and providing clear, commercially focused legal advice to support the organisation's strategic objectives. This is an excellent opportunity for a proactive legal professional who enjoys working in a fast-paced, regulated environment.
Key Responsibilities Manage and oversee civil litigation matters, including nuisance, negligence, property and commercial disputes
Provide expert legal advice on business risk, statutory duties and regulatory obligations (including water regulations)
Represent the company in defended debt recovery claims and property damage actions
Support customer complaint resolution, including engagement with the Consumer Council for Water's mediation and adjudication processes
Partner with the Insurance team to respond to third-party recovery claims
Negotiate, draft and advise on settlements and legal agreements
Lead legal risk assessments and support internal stakeholders in mitigating exposure
Stay informed on legal developments and industry trends impacting operations
Support enforcement actions under the Water Industry Act 1991 and related regulations
Deliver training to colleagues on key legal and regulatory topics
About You
You are a confident and commercially aware litigation lawyer who thrives on solving complex legal challenges and translating them into practical business advice. You enjoy building strong relationships across an organisation and can operate effectively in a busy, multi-case environment.
Essential Requirements UK-qualified solicitor with a minimum of 4 years' PQE
Strong experience in dispute resolution and the civil litigation process
Ability to analyse complex legal issues and develop practical, creative solutions
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain legal concepts clearly to non-legal stakeholders
Desirable Experience Experience of criminal litigation processes
Exposure to regulatory or enforcement matters
Experience advising within regulated industries
Key Skills & Attributes Strong negotiation skills with a track record of successful dispute resolution
Strategic mindset, aligning legal advice with business objectives
Ability to manage multiple matters effectively under pressure
Clear and concise written and verbal communication
Collaborative team player with a proactive approach
What you'll get
Join us and help deliver a reliable, high-quality service for our customers across the South West.
We believe in rewarding our people for their hard work and dedication. As our In House Lawyer you'll enjoy: Competitive Salary - Based on experience and skills
Annual Bonus Scheme - Recognising company performance
Pension Scheme - Helping you plan for your future
Flexible Working Options - We value work-life balance and offer flexible hours and hybrid working where possible
Healthcare Benefits - Access to employee assistance programs
Employee Discounts - On various products and services
Annual Leave - Take time to recharge with our holiday entitlement
Closing Date: 23rd June 2026
We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
Please note that the successful candidate will be subject to a mandatory DBS check as part of the onboarding process.
Be yourself, we like it that way. Together, we will build a culture of belonging, where inclusion is instinctive. Diversity is our strength and a reflection of our communities. We care, we value everyone, we celebrate uniqueness.
Our core values, which are essential to our success, are:
Be Rock Solid - Build trust and be trusted. Be the one we all look to and can depend on.
Be You - We want you to bring your best everyday. Be yourself and make your mark in your individual way.
Be the Future - Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.
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