Solicitor or Associate - Corporate

Why join us?

Based in the heart of the city centre, DWF's Belfast office is a full service commercial practice which has a history of attracting market leading talent and has seen double digit revenue growth across all divisions of the firm.

We are looking for Associates and Solicitors at all levels to join our Corporate team in Belfast, Northern Ireland to support and be part of their recent rapid growth

Our Belfast Corporate team can offer exposure to market leading corporate transactional work for a growing roster of clients based both locally in Ireland and also across the UK.

This experience would be complemented by;

• Direct one to one mentoring from our two local Partners based in the Belfast office, each with over 20 years' experience in Corporate and Commercial law;
• Dedicated professional support lawyers to improve your technical knowledge; and
• Genuine and transparent career paths for all members of the team

The team's recent growth and quality of work has been recognised externally having been nominated for Corporate Law Firm of the Year at the Insider Northern Ireland Dealmaker Awards 2024 and Professional Services firm of the Year at the Belfast Business Eye Awards.

This role is to be based in our Belfast office

Main Responsibilities:

• Build working relationships internally and externally in order to develop own knowledge and business networks, supporting growth.
• Display sound technical and professional judgement including the ability to analyse risk and justify decisions to clients internally and externally.
• Develop and maintain increasing levels of technical and commercial knowledge via training, supervised working practices and awareness of external advancements in the field.
• Understand client requirements and manage cases in line with service level agreements and best practice to achieve repeat business.
• Prioritise work effectively to maximise efficiency in working practices and maintain good service delivery, adhering to all necessary timetables/ deadlines;
• Achievement of individual budgeted financial measures and contribution to team achievement, including, but not limited to o budgeted sales revenue; aligned to personal target or team target (as applicable)
• budgeted recovery rate.
• budgeted chargeable hours and average weekly chargeable hours metrics
• management of lock up (WIP and debt) and disbursements in line with targets.
• Compliance with time recording, adhering to Firm policy fully and promptly.
• Ensure all necessary Management Information is kept updated.
• Contribute to and support process improvements.
• Demonstrate a commitment to the company's Values and CSR agenda.

The above is not an exhaustive list of duties and you will be expected to perform different tasks as necessitated by your changing role within the organisation and the overall business objectives of the organisation.

What will help you succeed in this role?

Essential:

• Relevant legal qualification and previous experience in corporate transactions or advising on corporate law and governance matters is essential.
• An ability to communicate technical concepts appropriately (verbal and written), modifying approach depending on audience.
• Demonstrate a solid understanding of the Business’ strategic direction (products, service lines, sectors) and our clients’ needs (markets, sectors, risks)
• Understand what service excellence looks like and how this applies to the role, having a customer focussed approach.
• An ability to adapt to change internally and/ or in response to the needs of our clients.
• Demonstrate our "Winning Behaviours" in all day-to-day activities and interactions.
• An ability to drive your own development and legal/ technical knowledge.
• Experience of supporting the skills and knowledge progression of junior members of the team, where applicable

What we offer?

At DWF, we deeply appreciate the significance of offering a comprehensive rewards package that extends beyond a basic salary. Our commitment is to ensure that each member of our team not only feels valued but is also duly rewarded throughout their tenure with us. Upon joining our organisation, you will have the opportunity to select from a diverse array of benefits, allowing you to carefully tailor a package that perfectly aligns with your individual needs and those of your family. In addition to our standard benefits, we offer a wide range of flexible benefits and robust well-being programs.

Our recruitment process upholds the highest standards of fairness and engagement. It includes comprehensive interviews and, at times, a written assessment, an assessment day, or presentation. We aim to create a positive experience for all candidates and offer any adjustments or additional support.

About us

DWF is a global legal business providing Complex, Managed and Connected Services. We empower people to be themselves within an inclusive and supportive environment, enabling everyone to achieve their full potential in line with their abilities and career aspirations.