Managing Associate

Commercial Managing Associate 6+PQE - Manchester - Salary up to £90k The Opportunity

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Managing Associate to join a growing Technology, IP & Data practice
, advising on complex and high-value technology projects for leading organisations.

This role sits at the heart of a nationally integrated team, supporting major technology procurements, digital transformation projects and strategic outsourcing arrangements. You’ll work closely with partners while managing your own matters, offering a high degree of autonomy alongside structured support.

The position offers exposure to clients operating across financial services, public sector, digital, energy and consumer-facing industries
, making this an excellent opportunity for a senior solicitor looking to broaden their profile while playing a key role in shaping the future of the practice.

You’ll be trusted to take ownership, lead matters and contribute meaningfully to the team’s ongoing growth.

You can expect:

• Ownership of complex technology and commercial matters
• Partner-level exposure with autonomy on delivery
• Involvement in large-scale, strategic client projects
• Bespoke technical, commercial and leadership development
• Clear progression opportunities aligned to performance and contribution

You’ll join a top national Technology, IP & Data team working collaboratively across multiple UK offices.

The team advises clients on a broad range of matters, including:

• Technology procurement and implementation
• Digital transformation and cloud migration
• Outsourcing and managed services
• Software licensing and platform agreements
• Intellectual property strategy and exploitation
• Data and digital advisory work

The culture is progressive, collaborative and supportive, with a strong emphasis on knowledge-sharing, flexibility and long-term career development.

• Leading and advising on complex technology projects and strategic procurements.
• Advising on high‑value technology, outsourcing and digital contracts.
• Managing your own matters with appropriate partner oversight.
• Supervising, mentoring and supporting junior members of the team.
• Playing an active role in business development, including pitches, tenders and client training.
• Building and strengthening long‑term client relationships.
• Supporting the growth of the team’s offering locally and nationally.

You’ll be a qualified solicitor in England & Wales with 6+ years’ PQE
, gained within a recognised commercial practice or relevant in‑house environment.

You will have:

• Strong experience advising on technology transactions and complex procurements.
• Exposure to technology, IT and media related matters (desirable but not essential).
• Proven ability to lead matters and manage competing priorities.
• Excellent drafting and negotiation skills across sophisticated contracts.
• A commercial, client‑focused approach to legal advice.
• Experience supervising or mentoring junior lawyers.
• An interest in business development and practice growth.
• Ambition to play a senior, visible role within a growing national team.

This role would suit a lawyer ready to operate at a senior level, with the drive to shape client relationships and contribute strategically to team development.

• Salary up to £90k
• Generous bonus structure
• Up to 30 days annual leave package plus bank holidays
• Company Pension
• Private Medical Insurance

E-mail: dominika.hold

WILLIAM JAMES RECRUITMENT

William James Recruitment is the number one recruitment partner to law firms in the UK & internationally. We work with a variety of top-tier clients, including a range of legal 500 firms.