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- Tasks: Lead a team of legal professionals and manage contract reviews.
- Company: Hoare Lea is a human-centric engineering consultancy focused on sustainable solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy private medical cover, stock options, and up to 30 days annual leave.
- Why this job: Join a supportive culture that values individuality and professional growth.
- Qualifications: 5 years PQE as a commercial lawyer with team management experience required.
- Other info: Flexible hybrid working and commitment to continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Senior Legal Counsel / Head of Legal
Bristol/Hybrid
About us
Hoare Lea is a human-centric and planet-conscious engineering consultancy. We offer intelligent and sustainable solutions to complex design challenges for the built environment throughout the UK and further afield.
We provide a wide range of engineering and consultancy services, including acoustics, air quality, building services (Mechanical Electrical and Public Health), fire, lighting, security and sustainability to name but a few. Together, our highly skilled teams use technical expertise and problem-solving skills to bring buildings to life. We ensure that, whatever the building, its design is outstanding, and its operations meet the needs of the communities it serves.
We are as committed to providing an environment where everyone can realise their unique potential. So, in joining Hoare Lea, you will experience a business that enriches your knowledge, supports your wellbeing, and welcomes your individuality. We also offer an extensive benefits package, including private medical cover, electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme, stock options, and up to 30 days of annual leave.
Whatever your ambitions or circumstances, our aim is to enable everyone to develop their knowledge, give their best, and enjoy what they do.
About the role
We have a brand-new opportunity for a lawyer to join our Governance team based in our Bristol office. You’ll lead the legal team, reporting to the Director of Governance and Legal, and working in a collaborative, knowledgeable, and highly engaged team, within a supportive, flexible, and high performing work culture.
In this key role, you can expect to:
• Lead a team of 6 legal professionals (solicitors, paralegals, trainees).
• Be responsible for providing a high-quality contract review and negotiation service to the firm.
• Review and negotiate contracts.
• Interact regularly with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring a communicative, collaborative and timely approach to delivery.
• Management and update the firm’s own terms and conditions and contract related policies and guidance.
• Mentor and support our ‘next gen’ legal professionals including apprentices and trainees.
• Provide ad hoc legal advice.
• Maintain the firm’s legal compliance register.
• Develop our AI contract review platform.
About you
To be successful in this role you’ll need:
• Proven experience working as a commercial lawyer (5yr+ PQE), with a track record of using pragmatic solutions to deliver robust contract terms.
• Demonstrable experience working with clients on supply of service agreements. Experience of consulting contracts would be welcome, particularly withing the construction industry, but not essential.
• Team management experience, including self-awareness, an open mind, and a spirit of generosity.
• Experience of supporting others to develop knowledge, skills, and confidence.
• Great communication skills and an enthusiasm for problem solving.
• A dedication to continuous improvement.
How to apply
To apply simply complete a CV profile and submit your application, or for further information please contact
If shortlisted, one of our recruitment team will be in touch to arrange a introductory call (about 30 minutes) to discuss the role and your experience in more detail. From there, successful candidates will be invited to attend a panel interview, either via Microsoft Teams or in person at one of our offices.
Adjustments and accommodations
If there are adjustments or accommodations that we can put in place to help you participate and give your best at any stage of the recruitment process (whether relating to disability, neurodivergence or anything else) please let us know.
Data privacy
We have updated our terms and conditions for candidates, click here to find out more.
Recruitment agencies
We have a Preferred Supplier List of trusted partners who assist us when required. We do not acknowledge speculative CVs or unsolicited candidate introductions from agencies not on the list.
#LI-HYBRID
Senior Legal Counsel / Head of Legal employer: Hoare Lea
Contact Detail:
Hoare Lea Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal Counsel / Head of Legal
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Hoare Lea's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to sustainability and community will help you align your responses during interviews, showcasing how your legal expertise can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Hoare Lea on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging in conversations about their experiences can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations for the Senior Legal Counsel role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your ability to lead a legal team and manage contracts effectively. Highlighting your problem-solving skills and team management experience will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends in construction law and AI in legal practices. Being knowledgeable about these areas will not only impress during interviews but also show your dedication to continuous improvement, which is highly valued by Hoare Lea.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Legal Counsel / Head of Legal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience as a commercial lawyer, particularly focusing on your contract review and negotiation skills. Emphasise any team management experience and your ability to mentor others.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention specific examples of how you've used pragmatic solutions in your previous roles and how you can contribute to Hoare Lea's mission.
Highlight Communication Skills: In both your CV and cover letter, emphasise your great communication skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully interacted with internal and external stakeholders in past roles.
Prepare for Interviews: If shortlisted, prepare for the introductory call and panel interview by reviewing common legal scenarios and questions related to contract negotiations. Be ready to discuss your approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hoare Lea
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Legal Counsel, you'll be leading a team of legal professionals. Be prepared to discuss your previous management experiences and how you've successfully mentored others. Highlight specific examples where your leadership made a difference.
✨Demonstrate Your Contract Expertise
This role requires a strong background in contract review and negotiation. Bring examples of complex contracts you've worked on, particularly in the construction industry if possible. Be ready to explain your approach to ensuring robust contract terms.
✨Communicate Effectively
Great communication skills are essential for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. During the interview, engage with the panel by asking insightful questions about their processes and challenges.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
The firm values a dedication to continuous improvement. Be prepared to discuss how you've implemented changes or improvements in your previous roles. Share your thoughts on how you would develop the AI contract review platform mentioned in the job description.
