Contentious Construction (3+ years PQE) Associate – Exeter

Overview

In this role you will handle high-value construction dispute work from the Exeter office, supporting a top-tier national firm’s construction team. You will manage complex disputes across payment, delays, defects and professional negligence, with exposure to adjudication, litigation, arbitration and other ADR. You’ll collaborate closely with real estate, corporate, commercial and planning teams to deliver strategic outcomes for major clients in energy, renewables and development. This is a challenging, high-impact position with strong client contact and ongoing training.

Pay / Benefits

• hybrid working
• wellbeing initiatives
• comprehensive benefits package
• ongoing training and support from senior knowledge professionals
• high levels of responsibility and exposure to complex work
• business development opportunities

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day construction dispute work, including adjudication and court proceedings
• Advise on contract management and dispute mitigation strategies
• Act in adjudication, arbitration and expert determinations
• Advise on construction and energy projects across development, utilities and renewables
• Collaborate with cross-department colleagues to deliver complex matters
• Engage in business development and network-building
• Provide direct client contact from the outset
• Support from senior knowledge professionals and a collaborative team environment

Key requirements

• Strong experience running construction disputes
• Grounding in adjudication and court litigation processes
• Familiarity with JCT and NEC contracts and standard professional appointments
• Experience across adjudications, arbitrations and expert determinations
• Excellent communication skills and a commercial, pragmatic approach
• Ability to manage complex matters, advise on strategy and work under pressure

• Excellent communication
• Commercial and pragmatic mindset
• Collaborative approach under pressure
• Adjudication
• Arbitration
• Expert determinations

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