Principal Associate - Commercial Projects in Norfolk

Mills & Reeve are looking to hire an experienced Commercial Projects Solicitor to join our growing, national team and to be involved in high-profile projects.

The role involves working on a range of projects and commercial contracts with an opportunity to assist on procurement work. Our team is constantly involved in high value and high-profile projects, acting across various sectors for Government departments, contracting authorities, and private sector clients on complex commercial contracts of national importance. The Ministry of Defence is a key client, and you will support them on major procurements, with early responsibility to run projects and your own matters. A confident self-starter who takes initiative is essential.

This role could be based out of any of our regional offices, excluding London.

The person:

• Significant commercial law experience, with a minimum of 7 years PQE
• Experience working with government departments or for private sector companies contracting with government
• Strong drafting skills (preferably with experience of the Model Services Contract)
• The ability to give clear, simple, and pragmatic advice while working collaboratively with clients
• Public procurement experience is a plus but not a requirement
• Possessing Security Clearance is a plus but not a requirement

The activities:

• Leading on major projects and developing innovative, cutting-edge contract structures
• Advising on PFI expiry/variation and future public-private partnerships
• Structuring, drafting, and negotiating high value commercial contracts (including financial and technical schedules)
• Mentoring and supervising team members and supporting training for clients
• Leading and participating in business development initiatives and marketing events, including client training, preparation of tenders, attending pitches, and client hospitality events
• Co-ordinating project management to ensure a seamless service
• Option of working on procurement issues/developing procurement skills

The team:

You will work with partners based in our Cambridge and Manchester offices. Cambridge would be a preferred base, noting that with 7 offices in England we can be flexible on location, but this will not be a London-based role.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

The benefits:

We offer a competitive salary and a wide range of benefits.

Pre-employment screening:

If we offer you a role, we will conduct comprehensive pre-employment screening, including a basic DBS, verification of your right to work, a three-year employment history, and a self-declaration to assess your character and suitability for the role.

The firm:

Mills & Reeve is centred on achieving more for clients, their businesses, and the wider communities we serve. We build personal relationships, with advice tailored to individual needs. Our 1,250 plus people and over 750 lawyers share one vision – achieving more for clients.

By joining Mills & Reeve, you'll have the chance to build your skills and experience within a firm ranked in the top 50 UK law firms, which values its people. Our mantra is “Achieve more. Together.”

We're committed to providing an inclusive and supportive working environment, considering flexible working arrangements, and achieving the right balance for both our people and the firm.

To find out more about our diversity and inclusion work, visit our website.

Vacancy Title: Principal Associate - Commercial Projects

Office: Birmingham, Cambridge, Leeds, Manchester, Norwich, Oxford

Contract Type: Permanent

Closing Date: 28 August 2026