Job Description Managing Associate/Legal Director – Contentious Construction Lawyer Location : Leeds Salary : £90,000-£140,000 Extensive Benefits Experience required: 7 Years PQE Join a leading Construction and Engineering team recognised for delivering market-leading work on high-value, complex projects across the UK and internationally. Our client, a nationally recognised law firm with a Tier 1-ranked Construction and Engineering practice, is seeking an experienced Contentious Construction lawyer to join their growing Leeds team. This is an exceptional opportunity to play a central role in carrying out high-calibre work, developing client relationships, and contributing to the continued expansion of the practice. If you're an ambitious Contentious Construction lawyer with 7 years' PQE looking to take your career to the next level in a supportive, high-performing environment, this could be your perfect next move. About the Role As a Managing Associate or Legal Director in the Contentious Construction team, you'll be part of a dynamic group with more than 100 specialist lawyers, including 26 Partners, offering comprehensive legal solutions across all aspects of the construction industry. The Leeds team consists of 6 Partners and over 30 fee earners, renowned for their specialist experience, commerciality, strong client relationships, and innovative approach. They are consistently ranked Tier 1 in both Legal 500 and Chambers. Your responsibilities will include: Handling contentious construction matters across various sectors, such as: Buildings Civil and process plant engineering Energy projects Infrastructure Utilities Public and private sector developments Acting for diverse clients including: Developers Lenders Landlords Tenants Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) Public sector bodies Working with various contract types: JCT contracts NEC contracts Other standard form contracts Bespoke contractual terms Leading and supervising case teams Developing and maintaining client relationships Contributing to business development efforts Providing project support to Real Estate, Banking, and Projects teams Mentoring and developing junior colleagues Engaging in continuous professional development This role offers the opportunity to work on complex, high-value disputes with genuine autonomy and support from an experienced team of experts. What We're Looking For Essential Requirements: Qualified Solicitor with minimum 7 years' post-qualification experience in construction law Strong experience in contentious construction matters Proven track record of managing complex construction disputes Excellent technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills Commercial awareness and strategic thinking Strong communication and interpersonal skills Ability to lead and supervise case teams Proven client relationship management skills Ambitious approach with desire to develop expertise Strong attention to detail Desirable: Experience across multiple construction sectors Knowledge of energy and infrastructure projects Understanding of public sector procurement Track record of business development Additional construction-related qualifications Experience with alternative dispute resolution methods Exceptional Benefits Package Financial Rewards: Competitive salary (£90,000-£140,000 dependent on experience) Performance-related bonuses Comprehensive pension scheme Life and income protection Professional Development: Extensive training programmes Mentoring from named experts in the field Leadership development support Continuous learning resources Technical and skills-based training Clear career progression pathways Exposure to high-value, complex disputes Work-Life Balance: Flexible working arrangements Hybrid working options Generous annual leave Family-friendly policies Wellbeing support programmes Culture & Recognition: Supportive and collegiate environment Culture of improvement, growth, and collaboration Diverse and inclusive workplace Employee networks celebrating diversity Recognition for high-character colleagues who care for one another Location & Working Arrangements Based: Leeds office Working Pattern: Full-time Hybrid Working: Supported with flexible arrangements National Reach: Part of a team of 100 specialists across UK and international offices About Our Client Our client is a leading law firm committed to delivering technical excellence and real insight into clients' operations. They are the natural choice for FTSE 100 clients and their equivalents in other markets. The firm's success has been built by people from the widest range of backgrounds, locations, and perspectives, with a number of employee networks that provide space to discuss differences and celebrate diversity. Core Values: Technical excellence Real client insight Innovation Collaboration Diversity and inclusion Ready to Take the Next Step? If you're an ambitious Contentious Construction lawyer looking to work on high-value disputes with exceptional development opportunities, we'd love to hear from you. For a confidential discussion about this exciting opportunity, please contact: Lee Hawthorne-Finch 0333 996 2882 or lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com