Legal Director – Construction

Company: Think Legal Recruitment
Apply for the Legal Director – Construction
Location: Manchester
Job Description:

About the Role

We are delighted to be supporting a highly respected and rapidly expanding legal practice in their search for a senior construction lawyer at Associate Director level. Operating at the intersection of law, consulting, and technology, this organisation offers something genuinely different from a traditional law firm — a fully integrated, multidisciplinary approach to legal services that sets it apart in the market.

This is a significant hire into a growing team, and a genuine opportunity for an experienced construction lawyer to take a leading role in shaping the direction of the practice. The successful candidate will own client relationships, lead on complex non-contentious construction matters, and play a central part in business development and team growth.

The primary focus of the role is non-contentious construction work, though candidates with a mixed background spanning both non-contentious and contentious matters are particularly welcomed.

Key Responsibilities

  • Take ownership of a broad range of non-contentious construction matters, including contract negotiation and drafting, procurement strategy, and project advisory.
  • Advise across a diverse mix of asset classes and transaction types, including mixed use, residential, commercial, build-to-rent, hotels, student accommodation, and industrial schemes, as well as corporate occupier and property finance work across the UK.
  • Manage and develop client relationships, acting as a trusted adviser and delivering commercially grounded, pragmatic legal guidance.
  • Drive business development activity, including pitching, tendering, attending industry events, and contributing to thought leadership.
  • Raise the team’s profile both internally across the wider firm and externally in the construction and real estate market.
  • Contribute to the development of the group, including training programmes, precedent management, and the sharing of know-how.
  • Supervise, support, and mentor junior members of the team, playing an active role in their professional development.
  • Collaborate with colleagues across a broad range of disciplines — including tax, risk, financial advisory, consulting, and technology — to deliver truly integrated client solutions.

Skills & Experience

Technical Requirements

  • Qualified solicitor (England & Wales) with strong PQE in construction law, with a clear focus on non-contentious work.
  • Proven track record in non-contentious construction matters; experience in disputes work is an added advantage.
  • Solid experience advising on standard form contracts including JCT and NEC; familiarity with FIDIC is a bonus.
  • Strong academic background or equivalent professional achievement. Experience advising developers, funders, occupiers, and/or contractors across a range of major projects and asset classes.

Personal Attributes

  • Curious, energetic, and driven — someone who brings enthusiasm to their work and is a genuine team player.
  • Excellent drafting ability, attention to detail, and strong analytical, communication, and time management skills.
  • A commercial mindset, with a talent for translating complex legal matters into clear, actionable advice.
  • The confidence and presence to operate at a senior level with both clients and internal stakeholders.
  • Ambition to contribute meaningfully to the team’s strategic development and long‑term growth.
  • A genuine commitment to client care and continuous professional development.

What’s on Offer

This role offers far more than a conventional senior legal position. You will have access to a full suite of multidisciplinary capabilities — spanning tax, risk, financial advisory, consulting, and technology — enabling you to deliver integrated solutions that go well beyond what a traditional law firm can offer.

  • Competitive salary and benefits package reflective of the seniority of the role.
  • Hybrid working — based in Birmingham or Manchester with genuine flexibility around home working.
  • Flexible hours, with a focus on output rather than presenteeism.
  • World‑class learning and development, with clear progression pathways to Director level and beyond.
  • A collaborative, inclusive working environment where you are encouraged to bring your whole self to work.
  • The opportunity to play a leading role in building and shaping a growing practice at a pivotal stage of its development.

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Posted: May 2nd, 2026