Associate - disputes

Job description

We have an exciting opportunity for an associate to join the advanced delivery legal (ADL) team, based in the A&O Shearman Belfast office.

Advanced delivery legal (ADL) team – Belfast

Our ADL team plays a central role in delivering major elements of complex litigation matters and transactions across our global network. As part of A&O Shearman’s innovative approach to legal service delivery, ADL combines legal expertise with technology‑enabled processes to support high‑profile matters worldwide. The team works collaboratively with offices across the firm, enabling talented individuals to develop, thrive and contribute to impactful global work.

What you will do

• Lead and supervise teams of legal professionals on multi‑jurisdictional client matters.
• Work closely with partners and instructing teams to scope, plan and deliver legal service projects.
• Drive high standards of quality, efficiency and service, including reviewing work produced by junior colleagues.
• Manage workflows, report on progress and address queries from internal and external stakeholders.
• Provide legal expertise including drafting, reviewing and amending documents, conducting legal research and supporting document management.
• Maintain and improve templates and precedents, and contribute to innovative service development.
• Participate in business development activities, including pitches, pricing and client discussions.
• Represent and promote ADL within the A&O Shearman network.
• Contribute to the growth and success of the ADL function, including generating workstreams.
• Mentor, train and support junior team members to develop their skills and careers.

What you will have

• Admission as a solicitor, barrister or Fellow of CILEx.
• Typically four years’ relevant experience, including at least two years PQE.
• Strong experience leading and coordinating complex, multi‑faceted and international matters.
• Proven ability to manage and supervise teams.
• Expertise in international transactional or disputes law, or substantial senior generalist legal experience.
• High levels of professionalism, integrity, judgement and commercial awareness.
• A flexible and proactive approach, with the ability to thrive in a fast‑evolving environment.
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Strong relationship‑building skills and the ability to inspire confidence with colleagues and clients.
• A strong affinity with legal technology and interest in innovation.

What we can offer you

We recognise that our people are our most valuable asset, which is reflected in the wide range of benefits that are available to our employees. Some of these benefits include: our occupational pension scheme, group income protection cover, private medical insurance, mental health resources and free apps, health and wellbeing services encompassing GP service, emergency back-up care support, parental and special leave, holiday entitlement increasing with length of service, holiday trading, online discounts and lifestyle management services.

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We recognise the value of flexible working and embrace hybrid working, allowing our people to work from home up to 40% of their working time. We do, however, remain committed to working together in person for the remaining 60% of time so that we can learn, grow and succeed together.

Should you require additional support at any stage of the recruitment process due to a disability or a health condition, please do not hesitate to contact a member of our recruitment team who will work with you to provide any adjustments as required.

We are an equal opportunities recruiter and do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or any other protected characteristic.
A&O Shearman is a new global industry-leading law firm, with 48 offices in 28 countries worldwide. Our fluency in English law, US law, and the laws of the world’s most dynamic markets, enables us to provide unmatched insight and seamless delivery to clients. We work on challenging and important deals and disputes that have the potential to shape the future.

We offer exceptional opportunities for our people; opportunities to work for the world’s leading businesses; to transform the status quo, and to deliver your best work, helping you and your career to thrive, while delivering unparalleled outcomes for our clients.

Whether you're helping clients solve complex challenges, transforming the ways we manage our business, or ensuring the smooth-running of our operations, this is an environment where you can belong and excel. We provide first-rate training and development, we are committed to an inclusive environment, and we provide support and ways of working that help you optimise your wellbeing.

What truly defines a career with us? We recruit the best and ask for the best of you. And together, we will redefine success.