Senior Associate Litigation (Pathway to Partnership)
Robert Walters
A rare opportunity has arisen in an established Tauranga-based law firm who is looking for a Senior Associate with strong litigation experience to join their team. This role not only offers the incredible lifestyle benefits of living in the sunny Bay of Plenty but also provides a clear pathway to partnership for the right candidate. This rare opportunity arises as the firm looks to replace a retiring partner, providing you with the chance to step into a pivotal role managing a substantial client base and collaborating closely with another partner in the team. You will benefit from a supportive leadership structure that encourages professional development, knowledge sharing, and the opportunity to shape the future direction of the firm.
What you'll do:
You will play an integral role in managing complex disputes for a broad range of clients while working closely with another partner during this important transition period. Your day-to-day responsibilities will include advising on intricate legal matters spanning employment advice and disputes and commercial litigation including contract disputes, shareholder issues, construction disputes and more—always with an emphasis on providing strategic and pragmatic advice and achieving practical resolutions that protect client interests. You will be empowered to use alternative dispute resolution techniques wherever possible but will also be prepared to advocate robustly in court when required. Your ability to draft compelling legal documents will be matched by your commitment to mentoring junior lawyers and contributing positively to the team’s inclusive culture. Success in this role means not only delivering excellent outcomes for clients but also demonstrating the leadership qualities needed for future partnership within the firm.
What you bring:
- A current New Zealand practising certificate is essential for this position.
- 8+ years post-qualification experience (PQE), ideally with significant exposure to employment law and litigation matters across commercial, consumer, business, insolvency and construction disputes.
- Proven track record of managing client relationships effectively within a reputable law firm environment at a senior level. International and/or medium to large law firm experience will be highly regarded.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills are required for drafting documents, negotiating settlements, and representing clients in court proceedings.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively within a team-oriented environment while also mentoring or supervising junior lawyers as part of your daily practice.
- Strong courtroom advocacy skills.
- Ability to manage files independently from inception through to completion.
- Strategic commercial judgement enabling you to advise clients pragmatically on litigation risk and other legal and practical considerations during dispute resolution processes.
- Commitment to upholding ethical standards while integrating smoothly into an established and supportive firm culture that values approachability, dependability, honesty, adaptability and inclusivity.
What sets this company apart:
This Tauranga-based law firm stands out as one of the region’s most trusted practices thanks to its unwavering dedication to providing legal advice paired with exceptional client service. Founded over four decades ago, the firm has built its reputation on being agile enough to adapt quickly yet large enough to offer comprehensive support across multiple disciplines. The team is made up of knowledgeable professionals who genuinely care about each other’s success
If you are passionate about employment law and commercial dispute resolution, you are wanting to progress to partner level, and you are ready to demonstrate your leadership in a respected practice, this role offers both immediate impact and long-term career progression.
What's next:
If you are ready for a rewarding new chapter - this opportunity is for you! We will be finalising the shortlist for this role in January.
If you wish to apply or have further questions about the role, please reach out to Kristen Dewar at kristen.dewar@robertwalters.co.nz or 09 374 7335.
Robert Walters endeavours to review all applications in a maximum of five working days. If you have not received correspondence in this timeframe please do not hesitate to contact Suanne Briggs on +6493747350.
