Hays
Commercial Property Associate (NQ-3)

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Your new firm
Our client is a well-established UK law firm known for its progressive outlook, collaborative culture, and clear growth ambitions. It has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality legal advice across a diverse range of sectors, combining technical expertise with a genuinely supportive and people-focused environment.
The firm acts for a broad and high-calibre client base, including investors, developers, corporate occupiers, and asset managers. It is also recognised for providing excellent career development opportunities within a culture that promotes flexibility, innovation, and long-term progression.
Your new role
This is an excellent opportunity for a Commercial Property Associate to join a well-established and growing team in Southampton, with hybrid working available.
You will work on a broad range of commercial property matters, including acquisitions, disposals, asset management, and landlord and tenant work. The role offers strong exposure to high-quality work, as well as the opportunity to take ownership of transactions and play a key role in client relationships.
Alongside your own caseload, you will support on more complex strategic projects and collaborate closely with colleagues across other practice areas to provide joined-up, commercial advice. This is a visible role within the team, offering the chance to build your profile, develop client relationships, and contribute to business development 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
To be successful in this role, you will be a qualified solicitor in England and Wales with experience in commercial property, likely at NQ-3 years' PQE level.
You should have a solid grounding in commercial property transactions and asset management work, and be confident managing your own matters with appropriate supervision. Strong communication skills, a collaborative mindset, and a proactive, commercially focused approach will be key. A genuine interest in developing your career within a supportive and ambitious team is also important.
What you'll get in return
You will be joining a firm that places real emphasis on career progression, professional development, and employee wellbeing. The firm offers high-quality work comparable to leading city practices, combined with a more balanced and inclusive working environment.


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You can expect a competitive salary, a performance-related bonus, hybrid working options, and access to a comprehensive benefits package designed to support both your professional and personal development. This is a fantastic opportunity to take the next step in your career within a firm that is genuinely invested in its people.
What you need to do now
If you are interested in this opportunity or would like to discuss it further, please get in touch for a confidential conversation.
If this role isn't quite the right fit but you are considering new opportunities within commercial property, I would still be very happy to speak.
We would expect a lawyer with the stated PQE to have developed the appropriate level of experience; however, applications from candidates with slightly more or less experience are equally encouraged.
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk
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