At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the commercial legal function and advise on high-value contracts.
- Company: Purpose-led housing organisation focused on community improvement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, generous leave, and professional development support.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with excellent career growth and volunteering opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape a growing legal team while making a positive impact in communities.
- Qualifications: Experienced solicitor or barrister with strong commercial contract expertise.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 85000 £ per year.
An excellent opportunity has arisen for a Lead Legal Counsel - Commercial to join a major purpose-led organisation in the West Midlands.
Reporting directly to the General Counsel, you'll lead the commercial legal function, advise on strategically important matters and manage and develop a team of lawyers and paralegals.
Our client is a large, commercially focused and socially responsible housing organisation that reinvests its surplus into improving homes, services and local communities.
The organisation has created a diverse and inclusive working environment where different perspectives are valued.
It also places considerable emphasis on professional development, supporting colleagues through external training, professional qualifications and funded memberships.
Description
The Lead Legal Counsel - Commercial will be
- Acting as the senior legal lead for commercial contracts, procurement and wider commercial matters.
- Advising on complex and high-value contracts, frameworks, collaboration agreements and strategic partnerships.
- Leading and developing the in‑house commercial legal team, including supervising lawyers, paralegals and legal assistants.
- Supporting procurement activity by advising on legal compliance, risk allocation and commercial contracting strategy.
- Managing external legal advisers to ensure consistent quality, value and cost‑effective support.
- Working closely with senior stakeholders to enable commercial objectives while maintaining appropriate regulatory and governance standards.
- Developing commercial templates, playbooks and practical legal guidance across the organisation.
- Supporting the General Counsel with wider legal leadership and strategic projects.
- Profile
The Lead Legal Counsel - Commercial should be
- A solicitor, barrister or legal executive with significant post‑qualification experience in commercial contracts and a current practising certificate.
- Experienced in advising on complex, high‑value commercial contracts and strategic arrangements.
- Able to provide clear, pragmatic and commercially focused advice within a large or complex organisation.
- Experienced in supervising, mentoring or managing lawyers and other legal professionals.
- Confident engaging with and influencing senior stakeholders across legal, procurement and operational teams.
- Ideally experienced within an in‑house, regulated, public sector or not‑for‑profit environment.
- Familiar with public procurement, framework agreements or regulated contracting arrangements.
- Exposure to the social housing or local government sectors would be advantageous but isn't essential.
- Job Offer
This is a genuine legal leadership opportunity offering a salary of £75,000-£85,000, hybrid working and the chance to shape a growing commercial legal function.
The wider benefits package includes
- Group bonus potential of up to 15% of salary.
- 27 days' annual leave, increasing with service.
- Bank holidays plus an additional company holiday.
- The ability to buy or sell up to five days' annual leave.
- Employer‑matched pension contributions up to 8%.
- Employer‑funded private medical insurance and access to a 24/7 digital GP.
- Enhanced family‑friendly benefits and flexible working options.
- Healthcare, dental, wellbeing and lifestyle benefits.
- Professional development, external training and funded professional memberships.
- Paid volunteering time and access to a comprehensive employee assistance programme.
If you're an experienced Legal Counsel, apply now or contact Michael Bailey for more information.
Desired Skills and Experience
Lead Legal Counsel, Commercial Lawyer, In-House Counsel, Commercial Contracts, Procurement Law, Public Procurement, Framework Agreements, Strategic Partnerships, Contract Negotiation, Legal Leadership, Social Housing, Regulatory Compliance, Stakeholder Management, Legal Risk, Coventry Jobs
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Lead In-House Counsel - Commercial in Coventry employer: Michael Page
At Michael Page, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that champions community impact through our Social Value Lead role. Our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, providing employees with ample opportunities for professional growth while making a meaningful difference in the property industry. Located in a vibrant area, we offer competitive salaries and a commitment to employee well-being, ensuring that you thrive both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead In-House Counsel - Commercial in Coventry
✨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.
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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.
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We think you need these skills to ace Lead In-House Counsel - Commercial in Coventry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Michael Page, 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 Michael Page and the specific role of Lead In-House 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 Michael Page’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Michael Page
✨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 Michael Page.
✨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 Michael Page.
