Professional & Financial Risks Associate

Role overview

The team

Our Professional & Financial Risks team ("PFR") is seeking an Associate to join the team in Bristol. The PFR team is part of the firm's Insurance group and has a well-established client base, acting for the vast majority of Professional Indemnity Insurers in the market and their insureds.

The team handles a wide variety of claims against various professionals including solicitors, insurance brokers, accountants and financial advisers. The role largely involves defending liability claims both pre and post litigation, but the team also provide advice/ representation on associated matters such as regulatory issues, risk management and Ombudsman complaints. The team is also frequently asked to advise insurers on policy coverage aspect of claims.

As well as acting for all the major Professional Indemnity Insurers, the team also acts directly for a number of large professional services firms. The team is top ranked for Professional Negligence in both Chambers & Partners and Legal 500.

The role

The successful candidate will work alongside a number of partners and lawyers within a vibrant and growing team. The work will be varied, interesting and challenging and you will be given autonomy. You will handle matters involving a range of professions with values ranging from tens of thousands of pounds to multi millions.

You will have the opportunity to get involved with business development and client initiatives, as well as:

• Managing a caseload of Professional Indemnity claims, including coverage issues.
• Delivering high quality and timely output to clients, ensuring high levels of client service and alignment with agreed working practices and client service level agreements.
• Contributing to the development and improvement of the team's service, support, processes and procedures.
• Demonstrating the values and behaviours that for which the team is known and keep it client focused.
• Capturing and collating required Management Information in accordance with agreed practice for clients.

Knowledge, skills and experience

• 0-4 years of PQE or equivalent relevant expertise.
• A strong grounding in litigation experience. Insurance experience is desirable but not essential.
• Able to deliver legal and commercial solutions and establish collaborative working relationships with clients and colleagues to provide an outstanding client experience.
• Committed to business development to further grow your network and the practice.
• Able to work efficiently and commercially and understands the importance of financial hygiene.
• Collaborative and works effectively in a team.
• Committed to being part of a supportive, inclusive, and collaborative firm culture.
• A good knowledge of legal procedures.
• Excellent communication skills (both orally and in writing).
• Able to adapt to shifting priorities and adapt plans accordingly.
• Be able to demonstrate good initiative and problem-solving skills, but be conscious of when to consult others.
• Good attention to detail, good organisational skills and flexibility.
• A high level of confidentiality and integrity.
• Good knowledge of Microsoft Office.

Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging

We are problem solvers. Whether in front of clients or behind the scenes. To solve problems creatively for clients, we need diverse collaborative thinking; drawing on different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives. That means that everyone who either applies to, or works for, the firm is treated equitably. We believe in removing barriers to equal access not least because our people define us and define what we do. If you need support and adjustments to do your best work, whether that’s during the recruitment process or throughout your time at RPC, we’re here to help.

Flexible working that supports your commitments outside of work is an important part of our culture and, where possible, we will support this across all roles. Please get in touch with our recruitment team if you have any questions about our hybrid working approach or flexible working policy.