Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide legal advice and support for construction projects and contracts.
- Company: Join Sodexo, a dynamic organisation with a purpose-driven culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 20+ benefits, gym discounts, and 24/7 employee support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while thriving in a supportive team environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with strong construction law expertise and negotiation skills.
- Other info: Be part of something greater and enjoy excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are looking for a Legal Counsel/Construction lawyer to provide clear, pragmatic legal and commercial advice that supports Sodexo UK&I’s strategic goals. This role will help guide the business through complex decisions, manage risk effectively, and deliver commercially focused solutions that enable confident, compliant operations across a dynamic organisation.
Main Responsibilities:
- Providing effective legal and commercial advice and assistance as required by the Segments/Functions supported
- Reviewing, drafting and negotiating construction and facilities management contracts and PFI variations
- Advising on, drafting, reviewing and negotiating a range of standard forms of UK contracts such as NEC4, JCT, Model Forms of contract, complex infrastructure projects and bespoke contracts and queries
- Drafting, reviewing and negotiating professional appointments for design, scope of services, fee structures and contractual terms
- Preparing and negotiating collateral warranties and security documents
- Assisting the Segments/Functions supported regarding the assessment and management of legal and commercial risk
- Training the Segments/Functions supported on legal, commercial and regulatory issues
- Helping to ensure that business is conducted in accordance with relevant law and Sodexo’s internal governance processes
- Instructing external lawyers and managing external legal fees under appropriate supervision
- Providing preliminary advice on disputes and litigation
- Ensuring compliance with company policies and Legal Department processes
The Ideal Candidate:
- Educated to degree level or equivalent with strong academics
- Qualified solicitor in England & Wales (or equivalent common law jurisdiction) (guide 2-4 PQE)
- Qualification gained in top tier law firm and in-house legal experience in relevant industry desirable
- Strong technical knowledge and expertise in construction law, with a proven ability to advise on complex matters
- Demonstrated experience in advising on, reviewing, drafting and negotiating construction and engineering contracts including all standard forms of UK contracts such as NEC4, JCT, Model Forms of contract and complex infrastructure projects
- Experienced in drafting and negotiating professional appointments, collateral warranties, bonds, guarantees and associated project documentation
- Sound judgment and a pragmatic, solutions-focused approach, balancing legal risk with commercial objectives
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to manage internal and external relationships successfully
Package Description:
Competitive salary depending on experience. Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way.
In addition, we offer 20+ Sodexo benefits such as Sodexo retirement plan, discounts to over 1,900 brands to shop online, Gym discount to maintain a healthy lifestyle, a confidential 24/7 employee assistance programme providing independent support to overcome whenever life has its obstacles including emotional support, legal and financial advice.
Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today!
Legal Counsel in Manchester employer: Sodexo
Contact Detail:
Sodexo Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Counsel in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those with experience in construction law. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of NEC4 and JCT contracts. Be ready to discuss how you've navigated complex legal issues in the past. Show them you’re the go-to person for pragmatic solutions!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Sodexo team.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Counsel in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Legal Counsel role. Highlight your experience in construction law and any relevant contracts you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention specific experiences that relate to the job description.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a Legal Counsel, strong communication is key. In your application, demonstrate your ability to convey complex legal concepts clearly. We love candidates who can communicate effectively with both legal and non-legal stakeholders.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Sodexo!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sodexo
✨Know Your Contracts Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the various types of construction contracts mentioned in the job description, like NEC4 and JCT. Brush up on your understanding of how these contracts work and be ready to discuss specific examples from your experience.
✨Showcase Your Pragmatic Approach
During the interview, highlight your ability to balance legal risks with commercial objectives. Prepare examples where you’ve successfully navigated complex legal situations while still supporting business goals. This will demonstrate that you can provide the clear, pragmatic advice they’re looking for.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that test your judgement and problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you had to make tough decisions or manage risk effectively, and be ready to explain your thought process and the outcomes.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Excellent communication is key for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing legal concepts. Remember, you’ll need to convey complex information to non-legal stakeholders, so showing that you can do this effectively will set you apart.
