At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal advice on procurement and contract management for HS2 projects.
- Company: Join HS2 Ltd, a forward-thinking company committed to inclusion and development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible benefits fund, and a range of perks.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-value projects while advancing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with extensive experience in commercial contracts and procurement.
The predicted salary is between 61622 - 77027 £ per year.
Base salary: £61622 pa to £77027 pa depending on skills and experience. In addition, we offer a flexible benefits fund of 20% which is paid on top of the base salary and is fully pensionable, as well as a range of competitive benefits.
HS2 Ltd endeavours to ensure everyone working for us and with us feels included, thrives and achieves their full potential. This means we are positive and inclusive about making adjustments, providing flexible working, encouraging our staff networks to flourish and providing personal and professional development opportunities.
As the Senior Counsel, you will lead and manage the provision of a full range of legal advice in connection with procurement and corporate procurement/contract management/administration matters, freedom of information matters and insurance, liaising with key internal stakeholders to enable high quality, timely delivery and optimise exposure and risk whilst ensuring compliance with legislation and regulations.
About the role:
- In relation to high value procurements and contract management/administration enquiries, work without supervision to provide high quality legal support, including drafting documents and providing advice to staff at all levels on all aspects of commercial law.
- Attend senior level meetings on behalf of Assistant General Counsel/General Counsel.
- Act as a main point of contact in the Legal team to a wide range of internal stakeholders.
- Advise on resolution of contractual claims and disputes.
- Manage teams of external solicitors when required.
- Act as ‘subject matter expert’ in the Legal team in connection with UK GDPR, TUPE.
- Provide legal support in connection with insurance matters/policy.
- Contribute to the preparation and drafting of reports and briefings for HS2’s Board, the Executive and their respective sub-committees.
- Contribute to the operational management of the wider legal function.
- Actively promote and embed Equality Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in all your work.
About you:
Skills:- Communication skills – including ability to produce and present information with a variety of stakeholders.
- Problem solving skills, including working without established precedent or procedure.
- Ability to negotiate high value, complex commercial/contract terms.
- Ability to work within a multidisciplinary team in a high pressured environment.
- Ability to juggle and prioritise numerous tasks.
- Planning and organisational skills to manage a high, diverse and complex caseload.
- Extensive commercial contracts/construction contracts knowledge.
- Extensive knowledge of public procurement law.
- Thorough understanding of the role of the in-house legal function.
- Qualified solicitor with extensive post-qualification track record in high value, utilities procurements and contract management.
- Extensive working knowledge of dealing with government departments, utilities and/or transport undertakers.
- Experience in managing external law firms and budget responsibility.
The post-holder is expected to behave at all times in a manner consistent with the HS2 values of Safety, Leadership, Integrity and Respect. It is expected that you will actively promote and embed Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in all your work.
As HS2 Ltd do not hold a sponsorship license from the Home Office, we are not able to provide sponsorship to any applicant. Applicants must already have the Right to Work in the UK at the time of application.
Any offers made to applicants will be subject to satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks which include Nationality & Immigration Status, employment references, DBS, Financial and Education checks.
We perform the first assessment of suitability for a role based solely on the information in your CV. Your CV will be anonymised and personal information will be removed during the first stage of the application review.
Any applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
Senior Counsel (Commercial) in Birmingham employer: HS2
HS2 Ltd is an exceptional employer that prioritises inclusivity and employee development, offering a flexible benefits fund of 20% on top of a competitive salary. With a strong commitment to professional growth, a collaborative work culture, and a focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion, employees are empowered to thrive in their roles while contributing to the transformative HS2 project.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Counsel (Commercial) in Birmingham
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including HS2, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Counsel (Commercial) in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at HS2, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in HS2 and the specific role of Senior Counsel (Commercial). Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for HS2’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at HS2
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at HS2.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at HS2.
