At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage the Procurement and Contracts team, providing expert legal advice.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking local government team in St Albans.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive environment focused on sustainability and community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local governance while developing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Qualified legal professional with experience in contracts law and team management.
The predicted salary is between 50998 - 55224 £ per year.
Salary: £50,998 to £55,224 per annum (inclusive) + Local Government Pension Scheme (pay award pending)
Contract: Permanent, full-time (37 hours per week)
Location: St Albans. Flexible working options available, including hybrid working
Job Ref: P2495
About the role
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Procurement & Contracts Solicitor in the Legal Shared Service Procurement and Contracts Team. This pivotal role will predominantly:
- Lead, support, develop and manage the Procurement and Contracts team
- Ensure the delivery of proactive, robust, high quality professional and specialist legal advice on Procurement and Contracts legal matters
- Ensure client requirements are met within legal constraints
In addition, the postholder will support the achievement of the Councils corporate plan, projects and aims and ensure the delivery of high-quality customer service from the in-house team, external solicitors and from counsel.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, support, develop and manage the Procurement and Contracts team and contribute to the development of the Legal Shared Service generally
- Lead on complex legal matters, identifying potential areas of risk and liability and advising on solution focused strategies
- Ensure Legal Shared Services provides proactive, pragmatic, robust and solution focused advice and a support service to all clients (internal and external)
- Research, analyse, investigate and provide legal advice to councillors and to officers on any matter within the functions of the Council
- Attend Member and Officer meetings as required, including meetings of the Council, Cabinet and Committees, to ensure that decisions are lawful
About you
We are seeking a confident, qualified legal professional with:
- Legal expertise and experience in contracts law and local government procurement
- A proven track record in managing a legal team
- Strong interpersonal and client management skills
- A collaborative approach to working across Councils and teams
Guided by our Sustainability and Climate Crisis Strategy, we put the environment at the heart of every decision. We live our values trust, care, confidence, collaboration and customer focus while delivering sustainable services and reducing environmental impact. Join us and make a difference.
About St Albans
St Albans is a unique English Cathedral City with a colourful history, visible in its Roman remains, beautiful architecture, heritage sites and conservation areas. Set within the green belt and located just off the M25, A1M and M1, the District includes a cathedral, vibrant city centre and thriving villages. Our centrally located offices are close to the station (London St Pancras in 20 minutes), shops and restaurants. In short, it is a great place to live and work.
Benefits
In addition to working within a great team and receiving a competitive salary, you will have access to:
- 30.5 days basic annual leave (increasing with service) plus bank holidays (Annual leave will be pro-rated for anyone who does not work a standard full-time pattern of 37 hours over 5 days)
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Flexible working options
- Staff parking permit
- Reimbursement of professional fees
- Comprehensive development and training
- Discounted membership at selected local sports and fitness centres
- Access to discounts and benefits via an online platform
Additional Information
Disability Confident
We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and guarantee an interview to anyone disclosing a disability whose application meets all the essential criteria for the post.
Disclosure Checks
This post is subject to a Basic Disclosure Check.
English Fluency
The ability to converse at ease with members of the public and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential for the post. For those whose language is a signed language, the provision of a sign language interpreter who speaks English to the required standard of fluency will be provided. Further information about the legal requirement can be found online.
Closing date for applications: 5 June 2026
Interviews are scheduled for the weeks commencing 15 June 2026 and 22 June 2026. Please note: Interviews are conducted throughout the application process. We reserve the right to close the vacancy at an earlier date and strongly encourage early applications.
You may have experience in the following: Procurement Solicitor, Contracts Solicitor, Local Government Solicitor, Commercial Solicitor, Procurement Lawyer, Contracts Lawyer, Legal Team Leader, Principal Lawyer, Senior Solicitor, Public Sector Lawyer, Legal Services Manager, Head of Procurement Law.
Procurement and Contracts Team Leader employer: St Albans City & District Council
Join our dynamic team in St Albans as a Procurement and Contracts Team Leader, where you will play a crucial role in delivering high-quality legal advice while enjoying a supportive work culture that prioritises collaboration and professional growth. With flexible working options, generous annual leave, and a commitment to sustainability, we offer an enriching environment that empowers you to make a meaningful impact within the community. Experience the unique charm of St Albans, with its rich history and vibrant city life, making it an ideal place to thrive both personally and professionally.
Contact Details:
St Albans City & District Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement and Contracts Team Leader
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the procurement and contracts field. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its values. Understand their approach to procurement and contracts, and think about how your experience aligns with their needs. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills with a friend or mentor. Focus on articulating your legal expertise and team management experience clearly. The more comfortable you are discussing your background, the more confident you’ll feel during the actual interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you along the way, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement and Contracts Team Leader
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in contracts law and local government procurement. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Procurement and Contracts Team Leader, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to manage and develop a team. Share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past and the positive outcomes that resulted from your leadership.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate well-organised applications that get straight to the point while still being engaging.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at St Albans City & District Council
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of contracts law and local government procurement. Be ready to discuss specific legal matters you've handled in the past, as well as how you approached complex issues and provided solution-focused advice.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As a Procurement and Contracts Team Leader, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and manage a team effectively. Prepare examples of how you've supported and developed your team in previous roles, and be ready to discuss your management style and how you foster collaboration.
✨Understand the Council's Goals
Familiarise yourself with the Council's corporate plan and projects. During the interview, show that you understand how your role can contribute to these goals and how you can ensure high-quality customer service while navigating legal constraints.
✨Practice Your Interpersonal Skills
Strong interpersonal and client management skills are crucial for this role. Think about scenarios where you've successfully communicated with clients or stakeholders, and be prepared to share these experiences. This will help demonstrate your collaborative approach and ability to work across teams.
