Managing Associate – Construction

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

About the Role

We are pleased to be supporting a highly regarded and rapidly growing legal practice in their search for an ambitious construction lawyer at Managing Associate level. This is a genuinely differentiated organisation that operates at the intersection of law, consulting, and technology — offering something that a traditional law firm simply cannot match.

This is a mid-level hire into a busy and collaborative construction team, sitting within a wider real estate practice. The successful candidate will work closely alongside senior lawyers, taking ownership of their own caseload and playing a meaningful role in the development of more junior colleagues.

The primary focus of the role is non-contentious construction work, though candidates with some contentious experience are very welcome to apply. For a construction lawyer looking to grow their practice in an environment that rewards ambition and curiosity, this is a genuinely compelling opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

  • Advise on a broad range of non-contentious construction matters, including contract drafting and negotiation, procurement advice, and project advisory work.
  • Work across a varied mix of projects and asset classes — including mixed use, residential, commercial, build-to-rent, hotels, student accommodation, and industrial schemes — as well as corporate occupier and property finance transactions across the UK.
  • Manage your own caseload with appropriate supervision, taking on increasing autonomy as your experience and confidence grow.
  • Deliver commercially focused, pragmatic advice to clients, with a strong emphasis on quality and client care.
  • Support business development activity, including involvement in pitches, marketing events, and the production of thought leadership content.
  • Contribute to the smooth running of the team, including precedent management, know-how, and the training of junior colleagues.
  • Build and maintain relationships with clients and stakeholders across the wider business.

Skills & Experience

Technical Requirements

  • Qualified solicitor (England & Wales) with solid PQE in construction law, with a clear focus on non-contentious work.
  • Strong grounding in standard form construction contracts, including JCT and NEC; exposure to FIDIC is a plus but not essential.
  • Experience advising developers, funders, occupiers, or contractors across a range of project types and asset classes.
  • A strong academic background or equivalent professional experience.

Personal Attributes

  • Proactive, self-motivated, and enthusiastic — with a genuine interest in the built environment sector.
  • Excellent drafting skills and a strong eye for detail. A clear and effective communicator, with the ability to break down complex legal matters into practical, accessible advice.
  • Well organised, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines without losing quality.
  • A commercial mindset and a genuine curiosity about your clients’ businesses and objectives.
  • A team player who is keen to contribute positively to the culture of the group — office attendance of at least two days a week is expected.
  • Appetite for early involvement in business development and profile-raising activity, with ambition to develop your practice over time.
  • A commitment to continuous professional development and keeping technical knowledge current.

What’s on Offer

This role offers a platform that goes well beyond what most legal practices can provide. You will work alongside specialists across tax, risk, financial advisory, consulting, and technology — enabling you to deliver integrated solutions that genuinely set your advice apart.

  • Competitive salary and benefits package appropriate to the level of the role.
  • Hybrid working from Birmingham or Manchester, with genuine flexibility around home working.
  • Flexible hours, with a focus on output and delivery rather than hours at a desk.
  • World-class learning and development opportunities, with clear pathways for progression.
  • A supportive, inclusive team culture where ambition is encouraged and contribution is recognised.
  • Early exposure to business development and the chance to start building your own profile in the market.

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Posted: May 3rd, 2026