Hays
Commercial Contracts Associate / Senior Associate

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Our client is a leading national law firm with a strong reputation across the public, healthcare, commercial and technology sectors. Due to continued growth, the firm is looking to appoint a Commercial Contracts Associate or Senior Associate to join its highly regarded commercial team in either Leeds or Newcastle.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a collaborative and supportive practice that advises a broad client base ranging from public sector organisations and healthcare providers to technology companies, life sciences businesses and commercial enterprises. The successful candidate will enjoy high levels of client exposure, complex and intellectually stimulating work, and genuine opportunities for career progression.
Your new role
You will work as part of an established national commercial team, advising on a wide range of commercial contracts, technology transactions, data protection matters and regulatory issues.
The role will include:
- Drafting, reviewing and negotiating a wide range of commercial agreements.
- Advising on technology, software licensing and SaaS arrangements.
- Supporting clients on data protection and information governance matters, including data sharing and processing agreements.
- Advising on commercialisation, licensing and collaboration arrangements.
- Providing strategic advice to clients operating within regulated sectors, including healthcare, life sciences and technology.
- Supporting clients with privacy, information law and regulatory compliance matters.
- Building and maintaining strong client relationships while managing matters with increasing autonomy.
- Playing an active role in business development, networking and profile-raising initiatives.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
What you'll need to succeed
Applications are encouraged from solicitors who can demonstrate:
- Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales.
- Experience handling commercial contracts and commercial advisory matters.
- Exposure to technology, data protection, intellectual property or regulatory work would be advantageous.
- Excellent drafting, negotiation and communication skills.
- Strong commercial awareness and client relationship skills.
- The ability to manage competing priorities and meet client deadlines.
- A proactive approach to business development and networking.
- A collaborative mindset and willingness to contribute to a high-performing team.
What you'll get in return
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
- High-quality commercial contracts and advisory work.
- Exposure to household-name clients and major public sector organisations.
- Hybrid and flexible working arrangements.
- Clear progression opportunities within a growing national team.
- Supportive culture with strong investment in professional development.
- Opportunity to develop expertise across commercial, technology and regulatory matters.


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What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV. Alternatively, email or call us now on 0161 228 7770.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Desired Skills and Experience
- Commercial Contracts
- Commercial Law
- Contract Drafting
- Contract Negotiation
- Commercial Agreements
- Business Contracts
- Terms & Conditions
- Contract Review
- Corporate Transactions
- Legal Advice
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