Overview
As a lawyer, you will work on a variety of matters from regional to international, across practice groups. You'll develop a global mindset and be encouraged to put ideas into action with opportunities to get involved in new and different work. The On Site Team sits in central Reading alongside the client's retained legal function and is split into 6 practice teams: Property, Commercial, Litigation, Construction, Operations and Regulatory, and Competition.
Responsibilities
* Providing clear and concise legal advice and support to the client, aligned with business objectives and delivering practical, commercial solutions within budget and time constraints, while understanding and mitigating risks.
* Taking instructions from the client and advising on the law and legal issues.
* Drafting, reviewing and negotiating construction and other commercial agreements tailored to the client's needs.
* Attending meetings and negotiations as legal adviser with opposing parties.
* Ensuring the client's governance processes are observed as regards construction matters.
* Advising on variation and delay claims and assisting with dispute resolution under construction contracts.
* Monitoring and updating client contract precedents, processes and procedures and providing training as necessary.
* Managing a caseload and acting as a point of reference for queries.
* Identifying value-adding opportunities and improving internal efficiencies and processes.
* Supervising and delegating work to paralegals and support staff.
* Liaising with professionals and client teams both internally and externally.
* Keeping up to date with relevant legal, regulatory and industry developments and providing proactive updates to support client operations.
* Designing and delivering legal training to the client's business and management teams.
* Undertaking CPD activities to ensure knowledge transfer within the legal team.
* Complying with service levels and KPIs, recording time accurately and meeting reporting obligations.
* Obtaining regular client feedback.
Qualifications
* Qualified solicitor or barrister with 3+ years PQE in construction law. We welcome candidates with the minimum PQE or equivalent experience and encourage applications from those who are bright and able to pick up new skills quickly. Knowledge of the utility sector is useful but not essential.
* In-house experience useful but not essential.
* A detailed knowledge and understanding of drafting and negotiating construction contracts; familiarity with target cost contracts such as NEC and IChemE; two-stage contracting; framework agreements; advising on variation and delay claims; and settlement and variation agreements.
* A working knowledge of joint ventures; governance advice; the impact of CAR, PL and PII insurance on contract drafting; and bonds, guarantees and collateral warranties.
* Awareness of public procurement, regulatory constraints in a heavily regulated sector and general aspects of securitisation.
* Knowledge or experience of NRSWA powers and cost sharing; Water Industry Act works powers; HGCRA Adjudication; DCO protective provisions; WIA adoption agreements; and environmental permitting (preferred but not required).
* Ability to work independently with good judgment and decision-making; flexible, adaptable to change and able to meet competing deadlines.
* Eagerness to build expertise in new areas of law; highly organized and good at time management; professional and client-friendly communication; strong interpersonal and teamwork skills.
About the Firm and Benefits
* We are Eversheds Sutherland, a global law firm with more than 5,000 people across 30 countries. We provide benefits focused on your development, performance, health and financial future, as well as opportunities to contribute to the world.
* Fair, transparent and equitable workplace
* Rewards aligned with values and individual performance
* Flexible working through remote, flexible and hybrid options
* Health, dental and wellness support
* Diversity and inclusion in our culture and practice
* Structured professional and personal training, mentoring and development programs
* International and cross-functional exposure
* Pro bono work and community engagement opportunities
* Retirement planning, insurance and assurance
Diversity & Inclusion
Inclusive is a core business value. We bring together diverse skillsets and global mindsets, fostering diversity of thought and collaboration. We respect the individual and value teamwork, sharing ideas and solving challenges to meet client goals. We want all our people to thrive and we work to build a diverse and inclusive culture, monitor progress and develop our approach. We support flexible working arrangements where possible and invite you to discuss adjustments during the recruitment process. If you need any adjustments or support during recruitment, please contact us so we can assist you.
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