Principal Contracts Lawyer
£59,415 – £64,590 | Remote working | Annualised hours
As Principal Lawyer (Contracts), you'll be at the heart of multi-million-pound contracts and procurement work, leading on complex and high-value agreements.
This is a senior opportunity for an experienced and capable lawyer who’s ready to take on leadership, influence strategic decisions, and leave a visible mark on major council initiatives — from decarbonisation and renewable energy to regeneration and high-value procurement projects.
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Complex, High-Value Work - You'll lead on contracts worth hundreds of millions — including waste management services, solar panel rollouts, vehicle fleet purchases, and insurance policy negotiations. The work is challenging, rewarding, and critical to local infrastructure and service delivery.
Strategic Legal Influence - You'll work directly with external Counsel and senior decision-makers, helping shape the future of procurement and contracting across the councils. This includes early-stage involvement with the procurement team, ensuring robust legal input from the start.
Leadership & Impact - You’ll supervise two qualified lawyers, support junior and admin staff, and play a key role in mentoring the next generation of legal professionals — with plans to bring on a legal intern.
Well-Supported Environment - Led by a strong management structure under the Deputy Head of Legal, the team has robust administrative support - meaning you can focus on legal strategy and delivery, not filing and photocopying.
Flexible, Hybrid Working - While the office base is Abbey House, Abingdon, our working culture is built on trust and outcomes - not presenteeism. Expect a genuinely flexible and hybrid approach.
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Leading on complex commercial contracts and procurement matters.
Advising across departments, especially procurement and property.
Drafting and approving a wide range of contracts — from construction to consultancy and IT.
Supporting regeneration and town centre redevelopment projects.
Supervising a small team, conducting performance reviews, and nurturing talent.
Reporting to committees and advising elected members on legal issues.
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A qualified solicitor, barrister or chartered legal executive with a current practising certificate.
Strong experience in contract and procurement law — preferably with local authority experience.
Confidence managing complex matters with limited supervision.
A collaborative, can-do leader with a commitment to public service and excellence in client care.