Commercial Solicitor

Description:

Markel International is seeking a motivated and experienced Associate – Commercial to join their newly formed Commercial Legal Team within Markel Law, based in Manchester. This hybrid role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to a fast-moving legal department, handling a high volume of matters involving commercial, intellectual property, and corporate legal work.

As part of a Fortune 500 company, Markel International offers a collaborative work environment, a dynamic legal caseload, and the chance to grow in a highly professional and supportive atmosphere. This role is ideal for legal professionals with a strong foundation in commercial law and a passion for helping clients navigate complex contractual and regulatory issues.

Key Responsibilities:

• Draft, review, and negotiate a range of commercial agreements including:

  • Licensing, franchising, service and outsourcing contracts

  • IT and data protection agreements

  • Intellectual property licensing

• Deliver client-centric legal advice across a broad spectrum of commercial matters

• Support junior team members and contribute to a collaborative team culture

• Engage in legal process improvements through automation and technology integration

• Develop internal governance initiatives and training programs for clients and colleagues

• Provide timely updates on commercial law changes and contribute to client briefings and mailers

• Work closely with cross-functional teams and departments within Markel Law

Candidate Requirements:

Essential:

• Experience across a wide range of commercial legal matters

• Background in a commercial law firm, public sector legal department, or in-house legal team

• Degree in Law or equivalent

• Strong legal drafting, document handling, and negotiation skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities

• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and research capabilities

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and legal research platforms

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment

• Commercial awareness and problem-solving mindset

Desirable:

• Experience in intellectual property and cybersecurity

• Familiarity with legal tech tools and legal process optimization

What Markel Offers:

• Competitive starting salary with 10% annual bonus

• 25 days paid holiday + Bank Holidays (with buy/sell options)

• Private medical and dental cover, life assurance, travel insurance

• Company pension scheme, income protection, and season ticket loan

• Opportunities for career development, internal mobility, and skills training

• A people-first, inclusive, and flexible working culture

• Offices in Manchester, Leeds, London, and Croydon