Job Summary
Senior Counsel – Procurement & Contract Law, HS2 Ltd. Base salary: £61,622 – £77,027 pa, plus a flexible benefits fund of 20% (fully pensionable).
About The Role
- Lead and manage legal advice for procurement, contract management, and operational matters across HS2 phases (Phase 1 North Stations, Phase 2 – RWGI, 2a MCW).
- Provide high‑quality legal support for high‑value procurements and contract administration without supervision, drafting documents and advising staff at all levels.
- Represent the Legal team at senior meetings, such as the Procurement Steering Group.
- Serve as the main point of contact for internal stakeholders on procurement, contract, FOI, insurance, GDPR, and TUPE matters.
- Advise on resolution of contractual claims and disputes (excluding litigation or arbitration) and manage external solicitor teams when necessary, overseeing cost, budget and quality.
- Act as a subject‑matter expert on UK GDPR and TUPE within the Legal team.
- Support insurance matters, ensuring compliance with HS2’s Owner Controlled Insurance Policy and other applicable policies.
- Contribute to operational enhancements of the legal function, implementing process and system improvements.
- Deliver training, templates and knowledge management support to the commercial legal team.
- Promote and embed Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in all work and support organisational EDI initiatives.
Skills
- Excellent communication, presentation and influencing skills across a range of stakeholders.
- Strong problem‑solving abilities with the capacity to work autonomously in the absence of precedent.
- Negotiation skills for high‑value, complex commercial and contract terms.
- Ability to operate within a multidisciplinary team in a high‑pressure environment.
- Prioritisation and multitasking across a diverse and complex caseload.
- Attention to detail and consistent delivery of high‑quality outputs under pressure.
- Planning and organisational skills for managing a high and varied workload.
Knowledge
- Extensive knowledge of commercial and construction contracting, with preference for NEC3 expertise.
- In‑depth understanding of public procurement law, including Utilities Contracts Regulations.
- Comprehensive grasp of the role of the in‑house legal function and challenges in delivering HS2 projects.
Experience
- Qualified solicitor with a substantial post‑qualification track record in high‑value utility procurements and contract management.
- Experience dealing with government departments, utilities and/or transport undertakers, either in‑house or private practice.
- Demonstrated experience managing external law firms, including budget responsibilities.
Values and Equity
All behavior must align with HS2 values of Safety, Leadership, Integrity and Respect. The role requires active promotion of EDI and adherence to all related policies.
Senior Counsel (Commercial) in Birmingham employer: HS2 (High Speed Two) Ltd
HS2 Ltd is an exceptional employer that prioritises inclusivity and personal development, offering flexible working arrangements and a supportive work culture. As the Director of Supply Chain Management, you will lead a high-performing team in a dynamic environment, with ample opportunities for professional growth while ensuring compliance with stringent safety and quality standards. Located in either Birmingham or London, HS2 Ltd fosters collaborative partnerships and encourages innovation, making it a rewarding place to contribute to the future of railway infrastructure.
