Managing Associate

The Opportunity

Commercial Managing Associate 8+PQE - Manchester - Salary up to £135k

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Commercial Projects Managing Associate (8+ PQE) to join a nationally connected commercial projects practice
, advising on high-profile and strategically important projects.

This role offers exposure to complex commercial contracts and large-scale projects across multiple sectors, including government departments, public sector contracting authorities and private sector clients
. You will have early responsibility for running projects and managing your own matters, with the chance to develop expertise in procurement, commercial structuring, and innovative contract arrangements
.

The role is ideal for a confident self-starter looking to take a leadership role within a busy, collaborative team, while maintaining direct client contact and involvement in strategically significant projects.

You can expect:

• Ownership of high-value projects and contracts from day one
• Exposure to cross-sector, nationally important commercial projects
• Opportunities to develop procurement and project management expertise
• Mentoring and supervision of junior colleagues
• Clear pathways for professional growth and leadership within the team

You will join a national Commercial Projects team collaborating across regional offices.

The team advises on:

• High-value commercial contracts and strategic projects
• Public-private partnership arrangements and PFI-related contracts
• Complex procurement exercises and contract structuring
• Technology, IT and service agreements for high-profile clients
• Innovative commercial frameworks and multi-party arrangements

The team is collaborative, forward-thinking, and committed to delivering practical, commercially-focused advice. You will work closely with senior colleagues while also taking ownership of your own matters, making this an excellent opportunity for leadership and development.

• Leading high-value commercial projects and advising on complex contractual arrangements
• Drafting, and negotiating commercial contracts, including financial and technical schedules
• Structuring innovative contract solutions and supporting procurement matters
• Mentoring and supervising junior team members and supporting client training initiatives
• Participating in business development activities, including client pitches, tenders and events
• Coordinating project management to ensure seamless client service

You’ll be a qualified solicitor in England & Wales with 8+ years’ PQE
, ideally gained within a recognised commercial or projects-focused practice.

• Technical excellence in drafting and negotiating complex contracts
• Experience or interest in public sector or procurement-related work
• Confidence providing clear, pragmatic advice and collaborating with clients
• Leadership skills and the ability to mentor and develop junior colleagues
• Ambition to contribute to business development and team growth

This role is ideal for a senior lawyer ready to lead major projects, influence commercial strategy, and take a visible leadership role within a growing national team.

• Salary up to £135k
• Generous bonus structure
• 25 days annual leave package plus bank holidays
• Company Pension
• Private Travel & Medical Insurance

Apply in the strictest of confidence

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.