POSITION OVERVIEW

We are seeking an experienced Senior Associate to join our commercial litigation practice. This is a substantive, high-autonomy role for a technically accomplished litigator who is ready to operate with genuine independence – managing complex proceedings, advising clients directly, collaborating with experienced counsels, and contributing meaningfully to firm strategy.

The successful candidate will be trusted to run matters end-to-end, from initial advice and litigation strategy through to hearing or resolution, with direct access to partners and clients.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

- Proactively manage complex commercial disputes across multiple jurisdictions, including Supreme Court and Federal Court
- Prepare and settle pleadings, affidavits, interlocutory applications, and written submissions to the highest standard
- Provide strategic, commercially focused litigation advice directly to clients including boards, executives, and high-net-worth individuals
- Act as day-to-day strategic lead on matters, with accountability for litigation outcomes and cost management
- Advise across a broad range of disputes including commercial and contractual matters, insolvency and restructuring, Corporations Act disputes, shareholder and director matters, and urgent interlocutory applications
- Instruct and manage external counsel where required, maintaining oversight of both strategy and costs
- Identify, assess, and proactively manage legal risk, contributing to broader commercial decision-making
- Mentor and supervise junior lawyers, supporting their development within the team
- Participate in business development, client relationship management, and firm growth initiatives

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE





- Minimum 5 years’ post-qualification experience in commercial litigation, gained at a reputable law firm, the Bar, or in a senior in-house disputes role
- Admission as a solicitor in the Supreme Court of NSW with a current unrestricted practising certificate
- Demonstrated ability to run proceedings with a high degree of autonomy, from strategy through to hearing or resolution
- Strong technical litigation skills across pleadings, evidence, discovery, interlocutory applications, and advocacy
- Experience across a broad range of commercial disputes, with exposure to Corporations Act, insolvency, or financial services matters highly desirable
- Excellent written advocacy skills and the ability to produce precise, compelling legal documents under pressure
- Demonstrated ability to use AI tools thoughtfully and responsibly to enhance legal research, drafting, and workflow efficiency

KEY COMPETENCIES

Technical & Legal

- Legal drafting and written advocacy
- Litigation strategy and risk analysis
- Court procedure and advocacy
- Commercial legal analysis

Commercial & Interpersonal

- Direct client management and communication
- Commercial judgment and pragmatism
- Matter and cost management
- Leadership and team development

WHAT WE OFFER

- Complex, high-stakes commercial litigation with genuine strategic responsibility
- Direct client relationships and access to partners and decision-makers
- Remuneration competitive with the market for the level and calibre of the role
- A collegiate, high-performance culture with clear career progression tied to contribution
- Active support to build your qualified profile and market reputation
- A genuine and transparent path to partnership for the right person

📌 Senior Associate – Commercial Litigation (Sydney)
🏢 Ironbridge Legal Pty
📍 Sydney