Commercial Solicitor (Public Sector Focus)

JMC Legal Recruitment; Chelmsford; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected law firm seeks a Commercial Solicitor with a public sector focus to join their Chelmsford office. The role involves advising on a range of commercial legal matters, managing caseloads, and contributing to high-profile projects whilst fostering team development in a collaborative environment.

Benefits

25-30 days' annual leave

Private healthcare

Generous pension scheme

Annual bonus incentives

Life assurance

Flexible working options

Subsidised gym membership

Enhanced parental leave

Structured promotion pathway

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of commercial agreements.
• Familiarity with public procurement or public law advantageous.
• Comfortable managing own caseload.

Responsibilities

• Drafting and negotiating public sector contracts.
• Advising on collaborative arrangements and partnerships.
• Supporting complex procurement exercises.

Skills

Commercial thinking

Great communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

2+ years' post-qualification experience in commercial law

Job description

Commercial Solicitor - Public Sector Focus (2+ PQE) | Chelmsford Office, Essex

A highly respected regional law firm with a national reputation is on the lookout for a commercially-minded lawyer to join its growing Public Sector team in Chelmsford.

The team works closely with central and local government bodies, NHS trusts, education institutions, housing associations, and other public-facing organisations. Their work is a blend of cutting-edge advisory projects, day-to-day commercial matters, and strategic collaborations that contribute to real, visible change in communities across the UK.

This could be your chance to play a key role in a Legal 500-ranked department delivering significant work for a broad mix of public sector clients.

What You'll Be Doing
You'll be part of a team advising on a wide range of commercial legal matters, including:

• Drafting, reviewing and negotiating public sector contracts and framework agreements
• Advising on collaborative arrangements, shared service models, and inter-authority partnerships
• (Depending on experience) Supporting complex procurement exercises and public law queries
• Contributing to high-profile strategic projects
• Helping to supervise junior lawyers and offering technical guidance
• Supporting wider business development and playing an active role in growing the team

About You:

• You'll likely have at least 2 years' post-qualification experience in commercial law, either from a public or private sector background
• A strong understanding of commercial agreements is essential; familiarity with public procurement or public law is advantageous
• You'll be comfortable managing your own caseload while supporting colleagues on larger, cross-disciplinary matters
• You'll bring enthusiasm, commercial thinking, and a genuine interest in the public sector
• Great communication skills and a collaborative spirit are key - this is a team that succeeds together

Why Join This Firm?
This is an opportunity to work with a team that's respected nationally and continues to grow with real momentum. You'll be part of a forward-thinking, collaborative environment that puts people first, clients and colleagues alike.

The firm's culture is rooted in respect, flexibility, and ambition. You'll be supported to progress your career on your terms, with a clear structure for development and regular opportunities to take on new challenges.

Benefits include:

• 25-30 days' annual leave (plus bank holidays), depending on level
• Private healthcare
• Generous pension scheme
• 3 x Annual bonus incentives
• Life assurance
• Flexible working and hybrid options
• Subsidised gym membership and electric vehicle scheme
• Enhanced parental leave
• Structured promotion and development pathway

This is a fantastic opportunity for a commercially savvy lawyer who wants to use their skills to make a difference, both within the firm and in the communities their clients serve.

Interested? Contact Andrew Chapman on 0203 865 2113 for a confidential discussion.