Managing Associate or Counsel - Pensions

Our market leading pensions team acts for sponsors, trustees and other stakeholders in relation to all aspects of pension arrangements, including establishment, mergers, de-risking, winding up and ongoing compliance with legislative and regulatory requirements.

The group has the skills, knowledge and technical expertise to advise companies, trustees, and other stakeholders on their duties, responsibilities and obligations in relation to pension arrangements and also advises on a number of leading insurance companies in relation to the development of pension products. The team also regularly work with overseas parent companies to advice on their UK subsidiaries’ pension arrangements.

We also have a strong pension’s litigation team dealing with all types of pension and trust related claims, advising on a number of leading insurance companies in relation to the development of pension products.

The pensions group at Simmons & Simmons deals with all aspects of pension arrangements, including:

• the establishment, revision, amalgamation and winding up of schemes
• advice on trustees' powers, duties and statutory obligations
• investment management agreements and common investment funds
• de-risking of defined benefit pension schemes
• acquisition and disposal of companies and assets
• predator protection
• employment contracts/dismissal
• extraction of surplus
• pension scheme deficits
• recovery of misappropriated scheme assets
• insurance products: personal pension plans and offshore arrangements
• advice to independent trustees
• contentious aspects of pensions, including rectification claims, actions to recover overpayments and
• claims involving professional advisers.

The role

We are seeking an experienced associate with excellent experience of corporate pensions to join our market leading pensions practice.

A variety of contentious and non-contentious work is on offer, with the opportunity to work closely with the team in both London and Bristol. A willingness to take on significant responsibility is essential and the ability to utilise your existing pensions knowledge to further develop on the group’s existing platform (and that of the wider firm) is essential, including business development and networking activities as part of this role.

Due to the continued growth and success, this is a newly created role which will further develop and support our existing team.

Person specification:

• Excellent academics.
• A minimum of 6 years’ post qualification experience which will have been gained at another leading City or regional practice.
• Strong client focus with an ability and willingness to get actively involved in marketing and business development.
• Commercially driven.
• Able to work effectively as part of a diverse and inclusive team.
• Flexibility and a willingness to work additional hours on occasion as required.

Here at Simmons & Simmons

Simmons & Simmons is a place where dynamic minds thrive. Our culture is built on work that matters, you will work on inspirational and thought-provoking projects, using your influence to create positive impact for our clients, society and the planet. We also ensure that everyone’s voice is heard from day one, irrespective of job title, qualification, or background. You’ll be encouraged to have an enquiring mind and share ideas that can drive the firm forward. Through innovative learning and development opportunities, you will be provided with a platform to excel, enabling you to exceed your career ambitions and do things you never thought were possible.

Key Highlights

• Competitive compensation package, including bonuses, private medical insurance, and pension contribution.
• A global skills academy offering extensive learning opportunities for all employees.
• A hybrid working model, requiring a minimum of three days in-office, subject to role and client needs.
• Integration of traditional legal expertise with innovative Simmons & Simmons Solutions.
• Recognition as a Stonewall Top Global Employer and a Top 75 Employer for Social Mobility.
• Vibrant social and sports committees, as well as art collections featuring renowned artists.
• The introduction of a Strategic Advisory Council to drive strategic initiatives in line with our mission.

Equal opportunities

We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment, offering equal employment opportunities across all spectrums of race, ethnicity, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and more. Flexible working arrangements are supported, and we strive to make our roles accessible to all. Our employee networks offer additional support, detailed in our D&I Information booklet provided during the recruitment process.

We value diversity and encourage applications from those who are passionate and willing to grow with us, even if not all requirements are met. Your unique experiences and perspectives are welcomed here.

For more information or to apply, please contact our Recruitment Team or visit our career page.