Commercial Senior Associate Solicitor

Senior Associate – Commercial | Manchester | £75k-85k + Bonus + Genuine Work-Life Balance

You’re joining a growing commercial team being built by a senior lawyer who has come from a significant in-house background and is now shaping a team with a very deliberate, balanced approach to private practice.

Why this role is worth a look:

• Broad, varied commercial work - no early pigeonholing
• Sensible hours - as close to a 9-5 as you’ll find in private practice
• Realistic targets and a team that isn’t driven by pressure for the sake of it
• Chance to be part of a growing team (currently 4, with plans to expand)
• Leadership that understands both in-house and private practice environments

The role

This is a key hire into a busy and expanding commercial team.

The work is intentionally broad. You’ll be advising across:

• Technology and SaaS agreements
• Green energy and power purchase work (including solar projects)
• Retail and consumer contracts
• Logistics, transport and procurement matters
• Media and influencer-related agreements

It’s a true generalist commercial role with quality clients and plenty of variety. You’re not being brought in to sit in a narrow lane - you’ll be trusted to handle a wide range of work and develop naturally.

What they’re looking for

Around 5+ PQE, but more important than the number:

• Someone who can get on with matters and produce a strong first draft
• Commercially aware - able to understand the business context, not just the legal point
• Comfortable working with a good level of autonomy
• Happy to take on some responsibility for supporting and supervising junior lawyers

They’re open on background. This could suit:

• A private practice lawyer looking for better balance
• Someone currently in-house considering a return to private practice
• A commercial lawyer who wants variety rather than specialism

The culture

This is where the role stands out.

The team is being built with a clear focus on:

• Sustainable working hours
• Realistic expectations
• A supportive, collaborative environment
• High-quality work without the usual private practice pressures

It’s not trying to compete purely on salary - but the package is strong for the market, and the lifestyle offering is a genuine differentiator.

The opportunity

You’ll be joining early enough to have real input into how the team develops, but with a solid pipeline of work already in place.

If you’re at the stage where you want better balance, more variety, and a role where you’re trusted to just get on with it, this is worth a conversation.

Feel free to get in touch for a confidential chat