Professioinal Negligence Senior Associate

Reference: Job ID: Posted: Closing date: Location: BristolSalary: 70,000 - 100,000 (per annum)Job type: PermanentWorking pattern: Full time / Flexible workingIndustry: Legal / Private PracticeCompany: HaysConsultant: Sheldon CarlisleHays office: Bristol — 2nd Floor, 3 Temple Quay, Temple Back EastPhone: Email: new companyOur client is a leading and highly regarded legal services organisation that are continuing growth within their Complex Litigation function, which has created an opportunity for a Professional Negligence Senior Associate to join its Bristol office. Renowned for delivering high-quality, customer-focused legal solutions, the business has strong insurer relationships and a consistent flow of complex work. It promotes a collaborative, inclusive culture where leadership, autonomy, and continuous development are actively encouraged. With a modern approach to hybrid working and a clear commitment to employee wellbeing, this is an excellent environment for experienced lawyers ready to step into a senior leadership role.Your new roleJoining the Professional Negligence team you will play a key leadership role combining technical legal expertise with operational oversight. You will be responsible for supervising and mentoring team members, promoting best practice and ensuring the delivery of high-quality legal advice, while also managing a targeted caseload of complex, multi-track professional negligence disputes. Matters may include claims involving professional advisers and misrepresentation, often funded through legal expenses insurance. Key responsibilities include:Leading, mentoring and developing junior lawyers, embedding high standards of technical excellence and client careSupervising case handling to ensure accuracy, efficiency and commercial outcomesManaging a small caseload of complex professional negligence and misrepresentation claimsConducting early case assessment and shaping dispute strategyEnsuring compliance with legal expenses insurance policy requirements and regulatory standardsDriving performance against SLAs, KPIs and financial targetsSupporting departmental strategy, change initiatives and continuous improvementUsing management information to monitor performance and identify opportunities for optimisationPromoting a culture of collaboration, knowledge sharing and excellence in customer outcomes This is a hybrid role, with a requirement to attend the Bristol office for part of the working week.What you'll need to succeedYou will have:Qualified as a Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive (CILEX) (or equivalent)Strong experience handling professional negligence disputes, ideally within a supervised or senior capacityProven experience of technical supervision, mentoring or team leadershipExperience working in an SRA-regulated environmentStrong commercial awareness and ability to manage complex litigation strategicallyExcellent communication, stakeholder management and client care skillsThe ability to prioritise effectively and work under pressure managing multiple demandsStrong analytical skills, including identifying legal and operational risksA proactive approach, with the confidence to lead, influence and drive performanceThis role will suit a senior litigator or existing Senior Associate looking to combine high-level legal work with meaningful leadership responsibility.What you'll get in returnIn return, you will receive:A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits packageHybrid and flexible working arrangementsHigh-quality, consistent complex litigation work from established insurer clientsA clear leadership role with genuine influence on team and departmental performanceA supportive, high-performing and inclusive cultureOngoing professional development and clear progression opportunitiesWhat you need to do nowIf you are a Professional Negligence Lawyer seeking a senior leadership opportunity in Bristol, we would be delighted to hear from you.Apply now or contact Sheldon Carlisle at Hays Legal for a confidential discussion about this opportunity. # - Sheldon Carlisle