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Senior Contracts Lawyer

Location: 1 Catford Road, Catford, London, SE6 4RU

Start Date: ASAP

Contract Duration: 6+ Months

Working Hours: Mon – Fri, 09:00 – 17:00

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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