Associate

This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated and client-focused lawyer to build long-term relationships with high-profile clients, while contributing to the growth of a leading Construction practice in the region.

Based in Abu Dhabi, the new recruit will focus on supporting a key institutional client in the oil and gas sector. The role will involve advising on bespoke forms of contract and working closely with the client's in-house legal and project management teams to delivery pragmatic, business-focused solutions which are time sensitive.

You will be part of a dynamic team handling non-contentious construction matters across the firm's Middle East offices, advising on UAE and English Law in relation to a wide range of projects, including EPC, infrastructure, industry-specific and development projects. In addition to client-facing responsibilities, you will also play a key role in enhancing the visibility and reputation of the Construction team and the firm in the Abu Dhabi market.

Key Responsibilities

Key responsibilities are but not limited to:

• Drafting, advising upon, negotiating and preparing construction contract documentation including: building contracts (in particular FIDIC standard forms); consultancy agreements; and forms of ancillary security.
• Providing strategic contract advisory services on live projects across the Gulf, including risk identification and mitigation and interpretation of contractual provisions.
• Collaborating closely with in-house legal and project management teams to ensure alignment with commercial and operational objectives.
• Supporting the development and mentoring of trainees and paralegals within the team. Contributing to thought leadership initiatives through legal research, client briefings, and publication of articles.

The new recruit will also be responsible for:

• Building, maintaining and developing client relationships.
• Pro-active participation in marketing initiatives.
• Providing key client training seminars and presentations
  

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

The firm has a Career Development Framework which sets out the competencies we expect of those at the Associate grade. In particular for this role, the ideal candidate will have:

• Qualified lawyer, 3-5 PQE
• Degree in law from a recognised university -minimum of 2:1
• Previous private practice experience of advising on the life cycle of major construction and infrastructure projects. Experience working in the Middle East is advantageous but not essential.
• Experience of drafting, undertaking risk reviews, advising upon and negotiating forms of construction contracts and particular conditions to construction contracts, whether bespoke or based upon a standard form e.g. FIDC, and all associated project documentation.
• Fluent English speaker
• Can do, hardworking and flexible approach
• Excellent drafting and negotiation skills, with the ability to produce clear, concise, and commercially focused advice.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple matters concurrently, often under time pressure, while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Proven ability to prioritise competing demands and adapt to changing deadlines or client needs in a fast-paced, project-driven environment.
• Ability and enthusiasm to undertake business development.
• Drive and enthusiasm & commercial awareness
• Interacts well with people at all levels
• Commitment to exceeding client expectations
• Strong case and time management skills