At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide top-notch legal advice on contracts and procurement for the Council.
- Company: Local authority committed to community service and legal excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible hours, and a chance to make a difference.
- Other info: Opportunity to mentor junior staff and contribute to service improvement.
- Why this job: Shape local governance while honing your legal skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified legal professional with experience in contracts and commercial law.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Job Purpose
To provide high-quality legal advice and support on a broad range of contractual, procurement, and commercial matters on behalf of the Council. The role will involve managing complex legal work, drafting and negotiating agreements, advising internal stakeholders, and ensuring legal compliance across commercial and contractual activities.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide specialist legal advice on contracts, procurement, commercial transactions, and related local government matters.
- Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of contracts, agreements, and legal documentation.
- Advise officers, senior managers, and departments on contractual risk, procurement regulations, and legal obligations.
- Support complex commercial projects and strategic initiatives across the Council.
- Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, governance requirements, and Council policies.
- Manage a varied caseload independently, ensuring matters are progressed efficiently and within deadlines.
- Liaise with external solicitors, counsel, contractors, suppliers, and partner organisations where required.
- Assist with dispute resolution, claims management, and contractual negotiations.
- Provide legal input into procurement exercises and tendering processes.
- Support and mentor junior legal staff where appropriate.
- Maintain accurate records and case management systems in line with service requirements.
- Contribute to service development, continuous improvement initiatives, and legal best practice.
Requirements
- Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive with current practising certificate.
- Significant experience in contracts, procurement, and commercial law.
- Strong knowledge of local government legal frameworks and public procurement regulations.
- Experience drafting and negotiating complex contractual documentation.
- Ability to manage a substantial and varied caseload independently.
- Excellent analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to build effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Experience advising senior management and elected members where required.
- Proficient in legal case management systems and Microsoft Office applications.
Additional Information
Hours per week: 37 hours
Location: Northampton, West Northamptonshire
Payment Schedule: Bi-weekly payments
Senior Contracts Lawyer in Northampton employer: Civic Recruitment Limited
As a Senior Contracts Lawyer with the local authority in Northampton, you will be part of a supportive and collaborative work culture that values professional development and community impact. The role offers the opportunity to engage in meaningful legal work that directly benefits the local community, while also providing access to continuous training and mentorship for career growth. With a focus on compliance and strategic initiatives, this position allows you to make a significant contribution to local governance and public service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Contracts Lawyer in Northampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who have experience with local authorities. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of local government legal frameworks and procurement regulations. We want you to showcase your expertise and confidence when discussing complex contractual matters.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can keep you fresh in their minds and show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Senior Contracts Lawyer position. We’ve got all the resources you need to make your application stand out, so don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Contracts Lawyer in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in contracts, procurement, and commercial law. We want to see how your skills match the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your past work that relate to managing complex legal matters and advising stakeholders.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since strong written communication is key, ensure your application is clear and concise. We appreciate well-structured documents that reflect your ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it makes the process smoother for everyone involved.
How to prepare for a job interview at Civic Recruitment Limited
✨Know Your Contracts Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of contracts, procurement, and commercial law. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experience where you've successfully drafted or negotiated complex agreements. This will show that you not only understand the theory but can also apply it in practice.
✨Understand Local Government Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with local government legal frameworks and public procurement regulations. Research the specific council you’re interviewing with, as understanding their unique challenges and priorities will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss how you've handled complex legal issues in the past. Think of specific instances where you’ve had to navigate tricky contractual negotiations or resolve disputes. Highlight your analytical skills and how you approach problem-solving, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
Since the role involves advising senior managers and liaising with various stakeholders, be ready to talk about your experience in building effective working relationships. Share examples of how you've communicated legal advice clearly and effectively to non-legal colleagues, showcasing your strong communication skills.
