Legal Counsel – Construction & Engineering Contracts

Reference: 4844818Job ID: 5424568Posted: 2026-11-12Closing date: 2027-02-10Location: Leeds, Manchester, London, Newcastle, BristolSalary: 65,000 -75,000 (per annum)Job type: PermanentWorking pattern: Full timeIndustry: Construction / In-house LegalCompany: HaysConsultant: Lucy AyrtonHays office: Sheffield — Floor 2, Fountain Precinct, Balm GreenPhone: 0114 2768844Email: Lucy.needham@hays.comYour new companyHays Legal is working exclusively with a leading international professional services organisation to recruit a Legal Counsel into its established UK in-house legal team.This is an excellent opportunity to join a highly regarded and collaborative legal function, working closely with the business on major projects while supporting continued growth and helping manage legal and commercial risk.You will work within a supportive, experienced legal team where you will have exposure to complex contractual matters and senior stakeholders across the organisation.This role can be based in Leeds, Manchester, London, Newcastle or Bristol.Your new roleWorking as part of the client-facing legal team, you will provide practical, commercially focused advice across a broad range of contractual and project-related matters.Your responsibilities will include:Reviewing, drafting and negotiating a wide range of commercial contracts and project documentationAdvising on consultancy agreements, framework agreements, joint ventures and teaming arrangementsReviewing collateral warranties, deeds of novation, reliance letters, NDAs, letters of intent and sub-consultancy agreementsAdvising on major projects, procurement exercises and complex contracting arrangementsSupporting tender processes, bids and contract approvalsAdvising stakeholders on legal and contractual issues throughout the life cycle of projectsWorking closely with bid teams, project teams, commercial managers and senior stakeholdersHelping the business effectively identify and manage contractual and commercial riskProviding legal updates and contributing to training and legal know-how across the businessThis is a genuinely business-facing position where you will have the opportunity to develop strong relationships and become a trusted legal adviser to key stakeholders.What you'll need to succeedYou will be a solicitor qualified in England & Wales with relevant post-qualification experience and a strong interest in commercial contracts.Ideally, you will have:Experience reviewing, drafting and negotiating commercial contractsExposure to the construction, engineering, infrastructure or professional services sectors, or a genuine interest in developing your career within this areaExperience of construction or engineering-related contractual arrangements would be particularly advantageousStrong commercial awareness and the confidence to provide pragmatic legal adviceExcellent communication and stakeholder management skillsThe ability to manage competing priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environmentA proactive, collaborative approachWhat you'll get in returnThis is an excellent opportunity to develop your career within a high-quality in-house legal team, working on significant and often complex projects for a major international organisation.You will gain broad commercial exposure, work closely with experienced lawyers and senior business stakeholders, and have the opportunity to further develop your expertise within the construction and engineering sector.The organisation offers a supportive, collaborative culture alongside flexible working and excellent opportunities for longer-term career development.What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call Lucy Ayrton 07858986254. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. #4844818 - Lucy Ayrton