PQE: 8+ years
Specialism: Non-Contentious Construction
Location: London but open to Fully Remote Considered
Salary –£100k - £150k PLUS bonus - Dependant on level and experience
A high‑calibre, commercially focused law firm in growth mode is looking to appoint an experienced non‑contentious construction lawyer to join as Head of Construction. This is a senior and practice‑defining opportunity for a solicitor with 8+ years’ PQE who has built a strong foundation in non‑contentious work and is ready to lead. This high‑autonomy role comes with a substantial and varied workload already in place, and we are equally interested in candidates who bring their own following whether through existing client relationships or a strong professional network and who want the platform and support to develop that further.
Location is genuinely flexible, and fully remote working will be considered for the right candidate. The role involves leading and developing the construction practice, advising developers, funders, contractors, consultants and occupiers on the full range of non‑contentious construction matters, drafting and negotiating construction contracts (including JCT, NEC and bespoke forms), advising on development agreements and funding structures, and providing strategic, commercially grounded advice throughout the project lifecycle. The successful candidate will also mentor junior team members, contribute to the wider development of the practice, pursue business development opportunities and collaborate closely with colleagues across real estate, finance and other practice areas on complex, multi‑disciplinary matters.
To succeed in this role, you will be a confident and technically strong construction solicitor with substantial experience in non‑contentious matters across a range of project types and procurement routes. You will have excellent drafting skills, deep familiarity with JCT, NEC and bespoke contracts, and experience advising developers, funders, employers and contractors. Strong client‑handling skills, commercial awareness and a track record of delivering pragmatic, clear advice are essential, as is the ability to manage your own workload and support the development of others. You will bring an entrepreneurial mindset, strong communication skills, attention to detail, a collaborative approach and the ambition to play a meaningful role in shaping and growing a practice.
In return, we offer the opportunity to take genuine ownership of a construction practice within a supportive and collaborative environment, with the infrastructure, client base and culture to enable you to do your best work. You can expect a substantial and varied workload from day one, direct engagement with clients on complex and high‑value matters, a competitive salary and performance‑related bonus, and genuine flexibility on location, including fully remote working for the right candidate. You will also benefit from strong cross‑practice collaboration, real scope for business development particularly for those bringing existing client relationships or a strong network.
If you would like a confidential chat about this opportunity and to understand more about the team, please contact Jane Gaunt who will be able to provide you with further information about this position and an overview of active and more discreet opportunities available within the market at your level.
Before moving into recruitment, Jane worked as a solicitor and now has a strong focus in Construction recruitment. She has over a decade of experience of moving construction solicitors at all levels nationally and will be able to support you with your next move.
Jane.gaunt@ardentrecruit.com
07393 198 443