Senior Contracts Lawyer

Senior Contracts Lawyer
Location: 1 Catford Road, Catford, London, SE6 4RU
Start Date: ASAP
Contract Duration: 6+ Months
Working Hours: Mon Fri, 09 00
Pay Rate: £ 34.74 Per Hour
Job Ref: OR21542

Job Responsibilities

• Manage and deliver complex contract and procurement legal work within the Council.

• Deputise for the Principal Lawyer as required.

• Provide legal advice on public sector contracts, joint commissioning, partnerships, and procurement matters.

• Draft, review, and negotiate complex and specialist contracts and agreements.

• Support and supervise staff within the Contracts Team, including day-to-day management where required.

• Provide legal advice to Members and Officers, including attendance at Committees when necessary.

• Draft and review committee reports, ensuring legal compliance and risk awareness.

• Advise on public private partnership arrangements and service-level agreements.

• Support policy development and implementation of new legislation affecting contract law.

• Handle Ombudsman matters related to service areas covered.

• Deliver training and guidance to Members and Officers on legal matters as required.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant legislation and best practice.

• Assist with audits, inspections, and external reviews of Council services.

• Promote the Legal Services function and maintain positive client relationships.

Person Specification
Must-Have Requirements

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of CILEX (or equivalent professional competence).

• Substantial experience in contract and procurement law within a local authority or public sector environment.

• Proven ability to manage complex legal caseloads at a senior level.

• Strong knowledge of public sector contracts, procurement regulations, and partnership arrangements.

• Experience of supervising and supporting junior legal staff.

• Ability to provide clear, accurate, and practical legal advice to senior stakeholders.

• Strong drafting skills, including complex and non-standard legal documentation.

• Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities effectively.

• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion principles.

• Willingness to attend the office at least two days per week.

Nice-to-Have Requirements

• Experience of advising committees and elected Members.

• Experience of delivering training or presentations to non-legal audiences.

• Involvement in service improvement initiatives or change management.

• Experience of working with external partners, auditors, or inspectors.

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