Associate, Commercial Litigation (1-5 PQE)

THE ROLE We are currently looking to recruit a bright and ambitious commercial litigation associate to join our team in Sheffield. The role will focus on involvement in high value, complex UK and cross border litigation disputes. Acting for a diverse client and sector base, the successful candidate will gain direct experience in all aspects of disputes avoidance, management and resolution of high quality highly complex disputes. The role will be based in our Sheffield office, the candidate will be part of a One UK Team but will also be required to travel to our other offices from time to time. MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Candidates will have a broad diet of work, that will include, but not be limited to: Advising on all aspects of disputes avoidance, management and resolution of high quality highly complex disputes across a range of sectors Management of disputes and preparation of strategies for dealing with claims be they by international arbitration, litigation, adjudication, expert determination or mediation Drafting, reviewing and amending a range of dispute related documents (ranging from pleadings to pre action letters) Strategically advising clients and managing client expectations and project delivery appropriately Liaising and taking instruction from clients Attending client meetings Business development - development of a personal plan, assistance with and implementation of business development campaign Legal research SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES Commercially astute and stays current on key legal and business news Excellent skills in communication, client relations, and team-working Provides a professional, quality service in a timely manner, and responds effectively to requests from internal and external clients Understands positive client support Creates confidence in the team and the firm Works co-operatively in a team, sharing information and knowledge Manages time effectively and efficiently Seeks to manage own utilisation wherever possible in order to meet individual and team targets Takes ownership for achieving agreed objectives Recognises and seizes opportunities for the firm, including repeat business Builds and develops own network of internal and external contacts Awareness of business development initiatives in the department and identifies ways to contribute Maintains a controlled, objective and flexible approach under pressure Exhibits behaviour consistent with the firm's values and builds relationships based on respect, trust and integrity This job description is not designed to be exhaustive and can be varied as required to develop or fulfil this role. The firm offers excellent training, learning and development programmes, as well as a genuine opportunity to experience a wide range of work and clients in a friendly, supportive environment. THE FIRM DLA Piper is a global law firm with lawyers located in more than 40 countries throughout the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific. Our global reach ensures that we can help businesses with their legal needs anywhere in the world. We strive to be the leading global business law firm by delivering quality, service excellence and value to our clients and offering practical and innovative legal solutions to help them succeed. Our clients range from multinational, Global 1000, and Fortune 500 enterprises to emerging companies developing industry-leading technologies, as well as government and public sector bodies. At DLA Piper we are firmly committed to diversity and inclusion. For us, diversity isn't just about visible differences, it's the unique blend of talents, skills, experiences and perspectives that makes each of us an individual and we know it's crucial to have a culture and environment where those differences are genuinely valued. We offer exceptional career opportunities to our lawyers, aspiring graduates, and business services professionals in a truly challenging and rewarding environment. PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING Please note that, in the event that we make an offer of employment to you and where local legislation permits, we may conduct pre-employment screening that can include checks relating to your professional and academic qualifications, your eligibility to work in the relevant jurisdiction, any criminal records, your financial stability and references from previous employers.