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- Tasks: Negotiate contracts and provide legal support for exciting geoscientific research projects.
- Company: Join BGS, a world-renowned geoscientific research centre with innovative collaborations.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension scheme, and 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the geosciences while working on national and international projects.
- Qualifications: Law degree or relevant experience in commercial contracts and research agreements.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and occasional travel.
The predicted salary is between 46743 - 52000 £ per year.
Legal & Intellectual Property Rights Team
Grade: UKRI Pay Band E
Salary: £46,743 per annum
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full-time – 37 hours a week (a small amount of remote working is possible, but this role does require regular onsite attendance)
Location: BGS headquarters in Keyworth in Nottingham
Closing date: 11th February 2026
Interviews will be held Friday 27th February 2026 in Nottingham.
A great benefits package is offered! including an outstanding pension scheme (with a generous employer contribution – on average 27% of your pay), 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays!
About the role
BGS is an innovative and world-renowned geoscientific research centre engaged in many exciting and forward-thinking research collaborations both nationally and internationally. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced contracts manager to be involved in contractual negotiations in support of BGS’s research activities.
- Provide expert legal knowledge to support an increase in our commercial research activity by negotiating and leading on all contracts being undertaken as part of BGS’s commissioned income and collaborative research work.
- Provide legal support to facilitate major national and international geoscientific research and collaboration projects.
- Drafting “tailored” agreements to meet specific requirements for non-standard research work.
- There may be a requirement for occasional travel within the UK as required.
Essential and desirable criteria
The following specific essential and desirable skills criteria for this post will be assessed at shortlist (S) stage, interview (I) stage, or both (S&I).
- Law degree or other qualifications supported by relevant legal/commercial contracts experience and qualifications (S)
- Experience of working within a UK research institute and/or public sector body, or demonstrable experience of routinely working with/for such organisations, including experience of handling commercial contracts, dealing with complex legal and contractual processes associated with commercial tender, contract, and research agreement work; including negotiations with clients, with regard to terms and conditions under which contracted or collaborative work is to be undertaken. (S&I)
- Expert knowledge of business/contract law, including all relevant legislation/regulations. (S&I)
- Able to manage your own contractual casework within a high pressure, routinely time-critical legal/contractual environment. To include effectively communicating to non-legal colleagues and external organisations. (S&I)
- You will be committed to a diverse and inclusive approach to work in the geosciences (S&I)
- Further relevant legal qualifications, e.g. commercial law, contract law, intellectual property rights law. (S)
- In-depth understanding of specific legislation/regulations of particular relevance to scientific research community and public sector, e.g. Freedom of Information Act/Environmental Information Regulations; Data Protection legislation; Intellectual Property Rights (S&I)
- A solid understanding of NEC Contracts, which are routinely placed on BGS for consideration, and of licensing agreements. (S&I)
Contracts Partner in Nottingham employer: British Geological Survey
Contact Detail:
British Geological Survey Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Contracts Partner in Nottingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the geosciences and legal fields on LinkedIn. Join relevant groups and engage in discussions to get your name out there and learn about potential opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research BGS and their recent projects. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially around commercial contracts and negotiations.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You want to be able to clearly articulate your skills and experiences related to contract management. Make it concise and impactful, so you leave a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Contracts Partner in Nottingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in contracts management and legal knowledge. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise!
Showcase Your Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on specific examples where you've successfully negotiated contracts or dealt with complex legal processes. We love seeing real-life applications of your skills, so be as detailed as possible!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s necessary. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Geological Survey
✨Know Your Contracts Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of business and contract law, especially as it relates to the geosciences. Be prepared to discuss specific legislation like the Freedom of Information Act and how it impacts research contracts.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Since this role involves negotiating contracts, think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated complex negotiations. Highlight how you managed to balance the needs of both parties while ensuring compliance with legal standards.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
You’ll need to explain legal concepts to non-legal colleagues, so practice simplifying complex legal jargon. During the interview, demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and ensure everyone understands the terms and conditions involved.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Diversity
BGS values a diverse and inclusive approach, so be ready to discuss how you’ve contributed to diversity in your previous roles. Share any initiatives you’ve been part of that promote inclusivity within the workplace or the wider community.
