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- Tasks: Manage a varied caseload of contract and procurement matters for Southend City Council.
- Company: Join Southend City Council, a supportive local authority with a commitment to community.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, flexible working, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working available; on-site at least 2 days a week.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by safeguarding the Council's interests and supporting commercial initiatives.
- Qualifications: Qualified lawyer with contract experience, preferably in a local authority setting.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Your new role will require you to hit the ground running, independently managing a varied caseload of contract and procurement matters. You will provide expert legal advice and support, dealing with commercial and construction contracts such as JCT and NEC. The team undertakes a broad range of work, including complex and high-value tasks that include (but are not limited to):
- Drafting, negotiating, and reviewing contracts
- Ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and policies
- Working closely with procurement colleagues to provide procurement advice, including strategy and risk
- Reviewing and commenting on reports in respect of the Council's governance and decision-making procedures, including the Contract Procedure Rules
This is a key role in safeguarding the Council's interests, managing legal risks, and supporting procurement and commercial initiatives, all with the support of the Principal and Senior Lawyers. Within this position, hybrid working opportunities are available; however, you are required to be on-site at the Civic Centre a minimum of 2 days a week.
To be shortlisted for this position, you must be a qualified lawyer with previous contract experience, preferably within a local authority environment. You will be able to demonstrate the relevant skills and experience to work independently on a caseload of matters, either in support of a wider initiative or as standalone cases. You should be able to undertake procurement, contract, and administrative work as necessary to support the work of the team. Keeping up to date with developments in the law, having good research and organisational skills, and providing clear and concise legal advice as required are essential.
You will also develop legal technical expertise and experience in one or more areas of law with some supervision from the Principal Lawyer or the Senior Lawyer, where necessary.
When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working, and excellent training and development opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training.
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
Lawyer - Local Authority Contracts - Permanent in Essex employer: Hays
Contact Detail:
Hays Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lawyer - Local Authority Contracts - Permanent in Essex
✨Tip Number 1
Before you even think about applying, make sure your CV is polished and tailored to the role. Highlight your contract law experience and any relevant local authority work you've done. We want to see how you can hit the ground running!
✨Tip Number 2
Networking is key! Reach out to current or former employees at Southend City Council on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just help you stand out in the application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of JCT and NEC contracts. We recommend practising common interview questions related to contract management and procurement strategies to show you're ready for the challenge.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions.
We think you need these skills to ace Lawyer - Local Authority Contracts - Permanent in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Keep Your CV Fresh: Before you hit that apply button, make sure your CV is up to date. Highlight your relevant experience in contract law and any local authority work you've done. We want to see what makes you the perfect fit for this role!
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Don’t just send a generic cover letter! Tailor it to the job description. Mention specific skills like drafting and negotiating contracts, and how you can manage a varied caseload. Show us why you're the one we need!
Show Off Your Legal Skills: In your application, be sure to showcase your legal expertise. Talk about your experience with JCT and NEC contracts, and any procurement advice you've provided. We love seeing candidates who can hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy – just a few clicks and you’re done!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Know Your Contracts Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of commercial and construction contracts, especially JCT and NEC. Be prepared to discuss specific cases you've worked on and how you navigated complex legal issues.
✨Showcase Your Independent Working Skills
Since the role requires managing a varied caseload independently, think of examples where you've successfully handled similar responsibilities. Highlight your ability to work autonomously while still collaborating with procurement colleagues.
✨Stay Updated on Legal Developments
Demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning by discussing recent changes in contract law or relevant legislation. This shows that you're proactive and dedicated to providing the best legal advice.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the council's governance procedures or their approach to risk management in procurement. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the role is right for you.