Full job descriptionYour new role
Southend City Council has a new full-time, permanent opportunity for an experienced Contracts Lawyer.The position will require you to work independently under the Principle Lawyer, managing a varied caseload of contract and procurement matters, including routine complex legal cases, high profile and politically sensitive issues.

You will provide expert legal advice and support, dealing with commercial and construction contracts such as JCT and NEC.Duties will include (but are not limited to) drafting, negotiating, and reviewing contracts, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and policies. Work closely with colleagues to provide procurement advice, including strategy and risk, reviewing and commenting on reports in respect of the Council’s governance and decision-making procedures, including the Contract Procedure Rules.You will support the Principal Lawyer to work collaboratively with senior officers and councillors, to promote the behaviours and values of the council and set out a clear direction and expectation of performance standards.This is a key role in safeguarding the Council’s interests, managing legal risks, and supporting procurement and commercial initiatives. All with the support of the Principal and Senior Lawyers.
Within this position, hybrid working opportunities are available. However, you are required to be on-site at the Civic Centre a minimum of 2 days a week.

What you’ll need to succeed
To be shortlisted for this position, you must have UK experience and the appropriate Degree in Law or Diploma from the Institute for Legal Executives, together with completed practice requirements for a fully-qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives, along with a current Practising Certificate from the Law Society of England and Wales, the Bar Council or the Institute of Legal Executives.
You must have previous experience of working within Local Government and experience of working in a political environment.Have experience of dealing with elected members and senior officers, using appropriate communication and negotiation skills.You will be able to demonstrate the relevant skills and experience to be able to work independently, working on a caseload of matters, either in support of a wider initiative or as standalone cases.Be able to undertake procurement, contract and administrative work as necessary, to support the work of the team. Keep up to date with developments in the law, have good research and organisational skills, provide clear and concise legal advice as required.

What you’ll get in return
When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training.
What you need to do now
If you’re interested in this role, click ’apply now’ to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV.



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