Our Client is a globally recognised leader in the shipping industry, specialising in a variety of products, largely oil & gas related. This is an exciting opportunity for a 4-6PQE shipping lawyer with extensive experience in shipping litigation and insurance, with both solid private practice and in-house experience.
This role is critical in ensuring the company’s interests are protected in matters related to cargo damage, vessel incidents, charter party and bill of lading disputes, general P&I and litigated crew claims, and other maritime-related legal issues.
The successful candidate will work closely with internal stakeholders, external counsel, insurers, experts and regulatory bodies to handle claims efficiently and in compliance with international maritime law and company policies.
Core responsibilities include:
- Liaising with various stakeholder including but not limited the chartering, operations, insurance department, post fixture, technical and commercial managers and (where applicable) the accounting department to ensure an effective handling of issues involving the Group;
- Liaising with relevant external parties, primarily external solicitors/counsel (foreign and domestic), P&I Clubs and legal costs insurers;
- Maintaining an up to date and detailed Claims status chart and reporting to Team Legal/relevant internal stakeholders on a weekly basis;
- Assisting chartering and operations departments with reviewing and negotiating charterparty terms and addressing immediate operational issues;
- Keeping abreast with legal developments, particularly with regards to
- interpretation of contracts including charterparties and bills of lading which may affect how Claims are resolved;
- piracy, war risks and general operational constraints;
- trade restrictions (embargoes, sanctions, taxes)
Essential experience:
- 4-6 years PQE, preferably within a shipping company/P&I Club or law firm specialising in shipping claims.
- Strong knowledge of English maritime law, international dispute resolution and arbitration (particularly under LMAA terms), international shipping regulations, charter parties, bills of lading, and maritime contracts.
- Experience dealing with P&I Clubs and legal costs providers.