At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as an Assistant Lawyer focusing on contracts and procurement, providing top-notch legal advice.
- Company: Bracknell Forest Council is a stable, supportive workplace committed to employee growth and well-being.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, generous leave, and perks like electric vehicle salary sacrifice and gym discounts.
- Other info: Interviews will be in person, allowing you to meet the team and experience our vibrant work culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team that values innovation and teamwork while making a real impact in the community.
- Qualifications: We seek qualified Solicitors, Barristers, or Legal Executives with expertise in contract and procurement law.
The predicted salary is between 37400 - 42000 £ per year.
£47,437 - £52,508 FTE (inclusive of London Weighting) plus £7,500 Welcome Payment subject to T&Cs
Location:
Contract:
Permanent
Working Pattern:
Full Time
Hours:
37 hours per week.
DBS Check:
No
Closing Date:
23/07/2025 at 23:59
Reference:
CM/25/317320
We currently have an exciting opportunity for an Assistant Lawyer specialising in contracts and procurement, on a full-time, permanent basis.
At Bracknell Forest, we pride ourselves on being a council which is stable and well-managed where our employees can thrive in a supportive environment. We understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance and offer a variety of flexible working practices, including options for remote working and arrangements that allow you to work from home, dependent on the needs of the service.
About you...
We are seeking a qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Legal Executive with strong expertise in contract law and procurement law. The ideal candidate will be capable of delivering high-quality legal advice to both officers and elected members, while also offering innovative and practical solutions that align with our clients’ objectives and strategic goals. A deep understanding of client needs, coupled with the ability to communicate clearly and effectively, is essential for success in this role.
As one of our assistant lawyers you will also be supported to develop your skills and competencies in a learning environment which values creativity, teamwork and innovation.
About the team...
We are a small team who works closely together to make sure that we are providing the best support to the council’s officers and members. Sometimes the work is challenging however there is also time for finding creative solutions and every day is different.
We are always looking for better ways of doing things. This means combining our technical skills with the softer skills that our clients value. We see ourselves as business partners to our clients, ensuring that legal advice is based upon a range of service delivery options and a proportionate appetite for risk. As enablers, we strive to ensure the council achieves its strategic aims whilst working within legal parameters.
Key responsibilities...
- To provide customer focused, high quality and responsive specialist legal advice and assistance, with primary focus in contracts and procurement.
- To carry out, with a minimum supervision, a wide range of legal work as required.
- To advise on and deal with all legal matters relating to contract and public procurement law, related governance and other general legal matters affecting the council and in particular matters arising from the Procurement Act 2023, PCR 2015 or Provider Selection Regime.
- To advise on and deal with all legal matters relating to subsidy control.
- To work closely with the council’s Procurement team to ensure that templates for standard terms and conditions, framework agreements and also Contract Standing Orders and the Procurement pages of the intranet are kept under review.
- 28 days* annual leave increasing to 33 days* after 3 years’ continuous service.
- The opportunity to buy up to 10 additional days* annual leave per year and sell 5 days.
- Hybrid working opportunities to support your wellbeing and work-life balance.
- Electric vehicle salary sacrifice for an electric car at a fixed monthly cost (subject to eligibility).
- An inclusive and social working environment with a variety of staff networks.
- Life insurance cover (linked to the pension scheme)
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption and fostering leave.
- Recognition of continuous service attained within the NHS and UKHSA when calculating some benefits such as annual leave entitlements, occupational maternity/paternity leave, and more. (Terms and Conditions apply – please refer to candidate pack for more information.)
- Career development through internal and external training opportunities.
- A great office location next to travel links and Bracknell Forest’s thriving town centre.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support your health and wellbeing.
- Sports and Social Club.
- Discounted leisure centre and gym membership.
Our values
At Bracknell Forest Council our values define who we are and what is important to us.Our core values are inclusive, ambitious, and always learning. These values influence the way we work with each other and the way we serve our residents and engage with our communities.We make our values real by demonstrating them in how we behave every day. If you are excited about joining a diverse team that celebrates learning and strives for excellence, we would love to hear from you.
Reasonable adjustments
We are committed to ensuring an inclusive recruitment process for all applicants. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support your application or interview, please let us know by contacting recruitment@bracknell-forest.gov.uk .We will work with you to support you throughout the process.
Interview date
Interviews will be held the week commencing 28th July 2025.
Interviews will be conducted in person, providing candidates with the chance to personally meet the team and experience our work environment.
We will be reviewing applications regularly and reserve the right to close the advert early if suitable candidates are identified. To avoid disappointment, you are advised to submit your application as soon as possible.
Please note AI is prohibited during the interview, any candidate using AI will be withdrawn from consideration.
Want to ask us a question?
For an informal discussion or to ask any questions about this role, please contact:
Job title: Assistant Borough Solicitor (Place Team)
Phone number: 01344 352037
At Bracknell Forest we champion equality, diversity and inclusion. At Bracknell Forest Council, we are always learning, ambitious and inclusive. Please see our candidate pack for more details.
Bracknell Forest Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect everyone employed with us to share this commitment.
We can only accept applications from candidates currently residing in the UK.
Candidates currently residing in the UK who require sponsorship to work are encouraged to assess their eligibility for a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) based on the relevant criteria. Please be aware that sponsorship availability varies and is subject to eligibility requirements and budget limitations. As a result, we cannot guarantee sponsorship for all roles and will evaluate sponsorship requests on a case-by-case basis.
No agencies please.
Bracknell Forest Council – Working for Equality. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.
How to apply
Please apply online via the link provided.
#J-18808-LjbffrAssistant Lawyer - Contracts and Procurement in Bracknell employer: Bracknell Forest Council
Bracknell Forest Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth, offering a supportive work environment where creativity and teamwork thrive. With flexible working options, generous leave entitlements, and a commitment to inclusivity, employees can enjoy a fulfilling career while contributing to the community. The council's focus on continuous learning and development ensures that staff are equipped with the skills needed to excel in their roles, making it a rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Lawyer - Contracts and Procurement in Bracknell
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Bracknell Forest Council, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Lawyer - Contracts and Procurement in Bracknell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Bracknell Forest Council, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Bracknell Forest Council and the specific role of Assistant Lawyer - Contracts and Procurement. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Bracknell Forest Council’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bracknell Forest Council
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Bracknell Forest Council.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Bracknell Forest Council.
