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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic contracts & procurement team while providing expert legal advice.
- Company: Join Southampton City Council, dedicated to improving local communities through professional excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a supportive employee assistance programme.
- Why this job: Be part of a proactive team focused on client needs and community impact.
- Qualifications: Must be a practising Solicitor or Barrister with strong leadership and legal expertise.
- Other info: Hybrid working options available; interviews may occur before the closing date.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 £ per year.
We have a vacancy for a Senior Solicitor to lead our contracts & procurement team and act as Business Partner to our main procurement clients. We are seeking an experienced lawyer with supervisory experience, able to lead an enthusiastic team and provide expert advice in contracts and procurement law.
The Council has a fully flexible working system that includes home/hybrid working, with adaptable working hours subject to meeting our clients’ needs. As this is a supervisory role the successful candidate will be working in a hybrid manner mixing home working with some regular office attendance required for team, management and client meetings as well as taking part in a regular in-office Duty Solicitor rota.
About You
You will need to be a practising Solicitor or Barrister with demonstrable experience and excellent knowledge of contracts / public procurement law. You will need strong leadership and inter-personal, drafting, negotiating and advisory skills and competence with IT and case management systems. We value an enabling, positive approach to finding solutions to complex problems and the ability to anticipate and adapt to business and client needs with a good understanding of risk management.
The Team operates in a fast paced, proactive and client focused way with our three Council clients, and you would be leading a highly performing team working with other Team Leaders and reporting directly to the Head of Legal Partnerships. We are an outcome-focused service recognised for its dedication to improving the communities in which we live and work and delivering professional excellence.
If you feel you have the necessary background, experience and skills to undertake this role we would like to hear from you.
What We Can Offer You
- A generous local government pension scheme.
- Flexible working (role dependant).
- Up to 13 days of Flexi Leave.
- Hybrid working arrangements (role dependant).
- 28 days annual leave (pro rata), plus bank holidays.
- Online Benefits – salary sacrifice schemes, benefits and discounts.
- Great local transport links.
- Employee assistance programme with access to our health wellbeing and support.
For further information and details regarding the position please contact Sarita Riley, Head of Legal Partnerships on 023 8083 3218.
Interviews are expected to be held in July and August 2025. Please note that the Council may offer exceptional candidates interviews while the recruitment remains open and reserves the option to appoint before the close of the recruitment period for the right candidate.
Senior Solicitor (Business Partner) employer: Southampton City Council
Contact Detail:
Southampton City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Solicitor (Business Partner)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific contracts and procurement laws relevant to local government. This will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment and expertise in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Southampton City Council, especially those in legal roles. They can provide valuable insights into the team culture and expectations, which can be beneficial during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences in managing teams. Given that this role involves supervising a team, showcasing your ability to lead effectively will be crucial.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on recent developments in public procurement law and any changes in local government regulations. This knowledge can set you apart as a candidate who is proactive and well-informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Solicitor (Business Partner)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in contracts and procurement law, as well as any supervisory roles you've held. Use specific examples to demonstrate your leadership skills and ability to provide expert advice.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the Council's mission. Discuss how your background aligns with their needs, particularly your problem-solving abilities and understanding of risk management.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Emphasise your inter-personal, drafting, negotiating, and advisory skills in both your CV and cover letter. Provide concrete examples of how you've successfully navigated complex legal issues in previous roles.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in a legal role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Southampton City Council
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Solicitor, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership experiences, how you motivate your team, and any challenges you've overcome in a supervisory role.
✨Demonstrate Your Legal Expertise
Make sure to brush up on contracts and public procurement law. Be ready to provide examples of how you've applied this knowledge in past roles, especially in complex situations.
✨Emphasise Your Problem-Solving Abilities
The Council values an enabling approach to finding solutions. Prepare to discuss specific instances where you've successfully navigated complex legal issues and how you adapted to meet client needs.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Hybrid Working
Since the role involves hybrid working, be ready to discuss how you manage your time and productivity in both home and office settings. Highlight any experience you have with remote team management.
