Senior Associate – Commercial | Manchester | £75k-85k + Bonus + Genuine Work-Life Balance
You’re joining a growing commercial team being built by a senior lawyer who has come from a significant in-house background and is now shaping a team with a very deliberate, balanced approach to private practice.
Why this role is worth a look:
* Broad, varied commercial work - no early pigeonholing
* Sensible hours - as close to a 9-5 as you’ll find in private practice
* Realistic targets and a team that isn’t driven by pressure for the sake of it
* Chance to be part of a growing team (currently 4, with plans to expand)
* Leadership that understands both in-house and private practice environments
The role
This is a key hire into a busy and expanding commercial team.
The work is intentionally broad. You’ll be advising across:
* Technology and SaaS agreements
* Green energy and power purchase work (including solar projects)
* Retail and consumer contracts
* Logistics, transport and procurement matters
* Media and influencer-related agreements
It’s a true generalist commercial role with quality clients and plenty of variety. You’re not being brought in to sit in a narrow lane - you’ll be trusted to handle a wide range of work and develop naturally.
What they’re looking for
Around 5+ PQE, but more important than the number:
* Someone who can get on with matters and produce a strong first draft
* Commercially aware - able to understand the business context, not just the legal point
* Comfortable working with a good level of autonomy
* Happy to take on some responsibility for supporting and supervising junior lawyers
They’re open on background. This could suit:
* A private practice lawyer looking for better balance
* Someone currently in-house considering a return to private practice
* A commercial lawyer who wants variety rather than specialism
The culture
This is where the role stands out.
The team is being built with a clear focus on:
* Sustainable working hours
* Realistic expectations
* A supportive, collaborative environment
* High-quality work without the usual private practice pressures
It’s not trying to compete purely on salary - but the package is strong for the market, and the lifestyle offering is a genuine differentiator.
The opportunity
You’ll be joining early enough to have real input into how the team develops, but with a solid pipeline of work already in place.
If you’re at the stage where you want better balance, more variety, and a role where you’re trusted to just get on with it, this is worth a conversation.
Feel free to get in touch for a confidential chat