Job Description
Senior Construction Lawyer (Non-Contentious)
£150,000 - £180,000+ DOE
London (1–2 days/week initially, flexible thereafter)
No client following required
This isn’t just another role. This is for someone who takes real pride in their craft.
If you're a senior non-contentious Construction Lawyer who thrives on complex, high-impact work — but could do without the hierarchy, politics, and burnout of Big Law — this may be your next home.
This firm doesn’t do generic. They’re a specialist construction team known for handling some of the most bespoke, technically rich and strategically significant projects in the UK. The kind of work that shapes skylines and infrastructure, without sacrificing your sanity.
You’ll work directly with a nationally recognised Partner — a genuine expert who values collaboration, not ego — and be given immediate exposure to some of the most high-value construction and infrastructure deals in the market.
What makes this different?
* Top-tier work, without the noise: Work on projects you'd expect at a Top 50 firm, minus the bureaucracy, billing theatre, or internal politics.
* No BD grind: The firm has a well-established pipeline and method for winning work. You won’t need to chase clients — just focus on what you do best.
* Bespoke team environment: This is a close-knit, high-performing team that thrives on substance, not show. Everyone is trusted, respected, and supported to do their best work.
* True flexibility: Offices across London, the South West/East, Cardiff and Birmingham. Remote-first and flexible with office attendance depending on your needs and experience.
You:
* At least 7 years PQE, trained and qualified at a Top 50 firm or recognised construction boutique.
* Your experience is exclusively non-contentious construction — from procurement through to project execution.
* You’re technically strong but also commercially sharp, used to dealing with sophisticated clients and large-scale projects.
* You want more responsibility, autonomy- but you’ve no interest in internal politics or posturing.
* You may have outgrown the corporate ladder but still want to do career-defining work, in a culture that’s mature and ego-free.
The Firm:
A leading construction boutique with a base in London and lawyers working across the UK. Their model is designed for experienced lawyers who want high-quality work, real autonomy, and none of the fluff.
Initially, you’ll spend time with the team (1–2 days/week), but once embedded, they’ll give you the freedom to manage your own time and location.
This is a rare opportunity to join a specialist construction team that truly delivers — both in terms of work and culture.
Next Steps:
To find out more, drop me a message here or reach out using the contact details below. The firm’s national head of construction is open to an informal conversation — no commitment — just a chance to explore if this could be the right fit.
Okapi Recruitment is exclusively instructed on this appointment.
📩 willcairns@okapirecruitment.co.uk
📞 01172 420 855