Senior Contracts Lawyer

Service Care Legal are working with a South East London Borough Council is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Senior Contracts and Procurement Solicitor to join their in-house legal team on a contract basis. This is a hybrid role, with two days per week required on-site and the remainder remote. You will handle high-profile and complex contract law matters, advise on procurement and public-private partnerships, and provide leadership within the Legal Services team.

Job Title: Senior Contracts and Procurement Solicitor
Location: South East London
Rate: £55-£60 per hour (Umbrella) / £53.28ph PAYE inc. holiday pay / £47.54ph PAYE exc. holiday pay
Contract: 6 months initially, 36 hours per week

Key Responsibilities

• Provide high-level legal advice on complex contract, procurement, and commercial law matters, including public-private partnerships (PPP).
• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of complex legal documents and contracts.
• Deputise for the Principal Lawyer as needed, contributing to the strategic leadership of the Contracts Team.
• Supervise, mentor, and support legal staff in the Contracts Team.
• Provide advice on local authority committee procedures and contribute to the development of council policies and procedures.
• Lead on legal training sessions, ensuring best practice and compliance.
• Promote the values of the council including equality, customer care, and continuous improvement in service delivery.

Required Qualifications

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (or equivalent legal qualification).
• Evidence of continued professional development in relevant legal fields.
• Demonstrated understanding and commitment to Equal Opportunities and high standards of customer care.

Skills & Experience

• Extensive experience in contract and procurement law within a local government or public sector context.
• Proven ability to manage complex legal caseloads at a senior level.
• Experience advising on public-private partnerships and drafting associated documentation.
• Ability to lead, motivate, and manage legal staff while balancing multiple priorities.

If this sounds like an opportunity of interest, please contact Lloyd Stanley on, or . We also welcome referrals for this position, where a successful recommendation would be worth £250.