Just the tonic

Private client lawyers and compliance and audit lawyers are increasingly sought after in the pharmaceuticals sector, say recruiters Badenoch & Clark, who have observed an upturn in demand.

Divorce lawyers have experienced a boost, particularly in the south west, while City firms are hiring junior litigators to handle recent demand in insurance, re-insurance and professional indemnity insurance. Meanwhile confidence is high in the structured product investment market.

“We’re seeing clients request multiple hires, often for new roles rather than replacement, particularly within derivatives, capital markets and mergers and acquisitions,” says Lynne Hardman, managing director, professional services, Badenoch & Clark.

Housing associations are cutting back on outsourcing and instead bringing legal services in-house, while the Legal Services Commission tendering process for contracts has resulted in work being awarded to regional firms.

Hardman says: “This has resulted in a shift in demand for candidates with relevant experience from London to the regions.”