Job Description

Are you a Litigator looking to step into a leadership role where your judgement matters?A fantastic opportunity has arisen with a boutique litigation firm in Leeds, known for its sharp focus on contested civil litigation and consistent delivery of excellent results for clients.The firm offers a breadth of services across commercial litigation, insolvency, and construction disputes, acting for clients in sectors including agriculture, education, and healthcare.As part of their continued growth, they are looking to appoint a Managing Associate to help lead their litigation team.This is an ideal move for a senior litigator (circa 3-5 years PQE) who thrives in a leadership role, brings confidence to decision-making, and is comfortable working autonomously. You'll manage your own caseload of contested litigation matters-typically valued between xc2xa310,000 and xc2xa3100,000-while guiding and mentoring a team of Solicitors and Trainee Solicitors.While experience in civil litigation is preferred, the firm is also open to Commercial Litigators with a strong background in contested proceedings who are looking to transition into a more specialist role.What's in it for you?Autonomy & Impact: you will have the freedom to run your own caseload and the trust to lead a team. Your decisions will shape how the team proceeds with cases.Competitive Financial Package: attractive remuneration and benefits package.High-Quality Work - Engage in intellectually challenging, high-value contested litigation across a variety of sectors, without the red tape of larger firms.Flexible Working- the firm understand the important of work life balance, therefore has a hybrid working system in place.The role:As a Managing Associate, you will lead from the front-balancing the management of a contested civil litigation caseload with the strategic supervision and development of junior team members. You'll play a key role in shaping file allocation and workflow across the team while being entrusted to manage key client relationships, drive results, and contribute to the ongoing growth and success of the litigation department.Key Responsibilities:

• Review and evaluate defended civil litigation files, assess their risk and complexity, and allocate them to the most suitable team member to ensure effective progression.
• Oversee the team's caseload, ensuring fee earners work efficiently and in line with strategic priorities. Provide mentoring, guidance, and support to junior solicitors and trainees.
• Independently manage your own portfolio of contested litigation matters, primarily Fast Track and Intermediate Track claims.
• Prepare high-quality legal documentation including pleadings, applications, and witness statements, and ensure procedural accuracy throughout.
• Provide close supervision and development to junior team members, particularly those managing defended small claims work.
• Build strong, trusted relationships with key clients, delivering clear, commercially aware legal advice and tailored solutions.

About you?The ideal candidate will be ambitious and detail orientated. You will have:

• 3-5 years PQE in civil or commercial litigation, with experience in managing contested claims
• A self-starter who is comfortable making strategic decisions and working with autonomy
• Commercial awareness and the ability to build and maintain strong client relationships.

If you would like to find out more about this Litigation role in Leeds, get in touch with Kieran Wallace on 0113 467 9797 or another member of the Private Practice team at Sacco Mann.

Sacco Mann