The Department for International Trade is recruiting arbitrators to adjudicate on disputes that arise under UK free trade agreements now the country has left the EU. 

In an expression of interest campaign, the department said it is seeking legal experts to appoint to dispute settlement rosters. Those selected will act as arbitrators for disputes launched under the state-to-state dispute settlement mechanisms embedded in a range of free trade agreements.

While arbitrators are needed for general dispute settlement rosters, there are also specialised rosters for cases related to financial services, sustainability or labour rights. If a dispute were to occur under an agreement, individuals from the roster may be called upon to serve on an ad hoc arbitration panel to adjudicate on the dispute.

Candidates must have a specialised knowledge of law and international trade with eight years proven experience in these fields. Arbitrators are also banned from taking instruction from the UK government when listed on any of the roster, and sitting judges are not eligible to apply.

The campaign is due to close at 11.59 on 6 December.