Associate – Dry Shipping (3+ PQE)

Location: London

Practice area: Shipping – Dry / Commodities

Qualification: Solicitor of England and Wales

Experience: 3+ years’ PQE

About the Role

Our client, an internationally recognised law firm with a leading shipping practice, is seeking a mid-level Associate to join its London office. You will work closely with partners and senior lawyers on a varied caseload of dry shipping matters, with a mix of contentious and non-contentious work for owners, charterers, traders, operators and financiers.

This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious shipping lawyer to take on greater responsibility, develop client relationships and play a visible role in a growing, highly regarded team.

Key Responsibilities

• Advising on and handling dry shipping disputes, including charterparty (voyage and time), bills of lading, cargo, demurrage and despatch, off-hire and freight claims
• Acting in London arbitration (including LMAA proceedings) as well as High Court litigation and, where required, alternative dispute resolution
• Managing your own caseload with appropriate supervision, taking day-to-day conduct of matters from first instruction through to resolution
• Drafting and negotiating charterparties, amendments, and related shipping and trade documentation
• Providing prompt, practical advice on live operational issues, such as casualties, arrests, security, and cargo and delivery problems
• Preparing pleadings, submissions, witness statements, advice notes and client updates
• Supporting partners on business development, including client meetings, pitches, marketing content and industry events
• Supervising and mentoring junior lawyers and trainees

About You

Essential

• Qualified solicitor in England and Wales with at least 3 years’ PQE
• Strong dry shipping experience, ideally including both contentious matters and charterparty work
• Sound knowledge of English law as it applies to shipping and international trade
• Excellent drafting, analytical and advocacy skills
• Commercial, solutions-focused approach, with the confidence to deal directly with clients and counterparties
• Ability to manage competing deadlines and work independently while collaborating well within a team

Desirable

• Experience in London maritime arbitration
• Exposure to related areas such as commodities, sale and purchase, or shipping finance
• Existing industry contacts and an interest in business development
• Additional language skills (Norwegian or other Scandinavian languages would be an advantage but are not required)

What’s on Offer

• Direct exposure to and regular working relationships with senior partners
• High-quality, international work for well-known shipping clients
• A collegiate, supportive culture with a clear route to progression
• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Hybrid working arrangements