Job Title: Solicitor - Contracts and Procurement Specialist

Department: Legal Services
Reporting to: Principal Solicitor - Non-Contentious
Location: Council Offices / Hybrid - 1 day in office per week

Role Overview

We are seeking a qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive to join our Legal Services team as a Contracts and Procurement Specialist. The successful candidate will provide high-quality legal advice on a wide range of contractual and procurement matters, supporting officers and elected members across the Council.

You will play a key role in ensuring the Council's contracts and procurement processes comply with relevant legislation, regulations, and internal policies, while protecting the Council's interests and delivering value for residents.

Key Responsibilities

* Provide legal advice to officers and members on contracts and procurement matters.

* Draft, review and negotiate a range of agreements including service level agreements, funding agreements, inter-authority agreements, framework agreements, and construction contracts (JCT/NEC).

* Support officers throughout the procurement process, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and best practice.

* Identify legal risks in contracts and procurement activities and provide practical solutions to mitigate them.

* Maintain accurate records and manage an active legal caseload.

* Work collaboratively with colleagues across Legal Services, Procurement, and other Council departments.

* Support good governance and attend committee or statutory meetings where required.

* Work with the Data Protection Officer to ensure appropriate data protection provisions are included in contracts.

About You

* Qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive.

* Experience advising on contracts and procurement matters within a legal team or practice.

* Strong drafting, negotiation, and legal research skills.

* Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

* Ability to manage workload independently and provide clear, practical advice.

* Experience within local government or the public sector is desirable