Construction Legal Director

Reference: 4827216Job ID: 5414188Posted: 2026-09-10Closing date: 2026-12-09Location: BristolSalary: 95,000 - 125,000 (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: 0117 374 6300Email: View email address on click.appcast.io new firmThis is a fantastic opportunity to join a highly regarded international law firm with a market-leading reputation in Construction, Energy and Infrastructure. The firm advises some of the most innovative organisations operating across the energy transition sector and is recognised for delivering complex, high-value projects throughout the UK and internationally. Due to continued growth and an increasing pipeline of major energy and infrastructure mandates, the firm is looking to appoint an experienced Construction Legal Director to join its nationally recognised non-contentious construction team. Based out of Bristol, this role offers a genuine platform to develop your profile, client relationships and long-term career within a progressive and collaborative environment.Your new role As a senior member of the construction team, you will play a key role in advising clients on the delivery of major energy, renewables and infrastructure projects. Working closely with partners and sector specialists, you will lead on client projects and advise on a broad range of complex construction and engineering matters, including:Drafting and negotiating EPC, balance of plant (BOP), supply and operation & maintenance (O&M) agreements.Advising on renewable energy, energy storage, wind, grid stability and wider energy transition projects.Supporting clients throughout the project lifecycle, from procurement strategy and project structuring through to delivery and operational phases.Leading contract negotiations and managing key stakeholder relationships.Collaborating with colleagues across projects, planning, real estate, finance, corporate and regulatory teams on multi-disciplinary transactions.Supervising and mentoring junior lawyers while helping to shape the ongoing growth of the practice.Supporting business development initiatives and further strengthening the firm's position within the energy and infrastructure sectors.The work is challenging, varied and strategically important, offering exposure to some of the most significant development and infrastructure projects currently being delivered across the UK.What you'll need to succeed You will be an experienced Non-Contentious Construction Lawyer, likely operating at Legal Director, Associate Director, Senior Associate or equivalent level within a respected City, international or national law firm. You should be able to demonstrate:Strong experience advising on non-contentious construction matters.Expertise in drafting and negotiating EPC, O&M, NEC and/or FIDIC-based contracts.Experience working on complex infrastructure, energy, development or engineering projects.The ability to lead negotiations and manage sophisticated stakeholder groups.Strong technical and commercial judgement.Experience supervising junior lawyers and contributing to team development.A genuine enthusiasm for the energy, renewables and infrastructure sectors.Ambition to play a key role in the future growth of a leading national practice. Applications are welcomed from candidates already based in the Southwest, as well as those considering relocation while seeking to maintain access to high-quality national and international work.What you'll get in return This is an outstanding opportunity to join an ambitious and growing team at a pivotal stage of its development. You will benefit from:A senior position within a nationally and internationally recognised Construction practice.Exposure to premium clients and market-leading energy transition projects.Genuine opportunities for progression and practice development.High levels of client contact and responsibility.Exceptional ongoing technical and leadership development.Flexible and hybrid working options.A supportive, collaborative and inclusive culture.Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.What you need to do nowIf you're an experienced Construction Lawyer looking to take the next step in your career with a leading international practice, we'd be delighted to speak with you in complete confidence. Apply now or contact us for a confidential discussion about this opportunity and the wider Construction & Engineering market. We would expect a lawyer applying for this position to possess the level of experience associated with this senior role. However, applications are welcomed from candidates whose experience may differ from the suggested level where they can demonstrate the required skills and expertise. #4827216 - Sheldon Carlisle