Legal Counsel — Contracts, GDPR & Procurement

HS2 (High Speed Two) Ltd; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible benefits fund (20%)

Fully pensionable benefits

Job summary

HS2 Ltd is seeking a Legal Counsel to deliver comprehensive legal advice across commercial, contracts, GDPR, and procurement for HS2’s program of work. You will act as main legal contact for Phase 2a procurements, drafting templates and managing external counsel while ensuring compliance with UK law.

The role requires a qualified solicitor or barrister with construction or procurement experience, strong drafting ability, and excellent communication to support senior leadership and policy teams.

Qualifications

• Qualified solicitor or barrister with contract and procurement experience.
• Strong contract drafting and negotiation skills.
• Proven ability to provide high-quality legal advice to internal stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality legal advice on commercial and contracts law for HS2 and its directorates.
• Lead on GDPR/data protection compliance and privacy matters.
• Manage external legal costs and oversee procurement-related legal support.
• Draft templates and precedents to improve efficiency and consistency.
• Advise on resolution of contractual claims and disputes with external lawyers as needed.
• Support senior management with legal updates and reports.

Skills

Legal drafting

Contract law

Negotiation

Interpersonal skills

Attention to detail

Planning & organisation

Education

Qualified Solicitor or Barrister

Job description

HS2 Ltd is seeking a Legal Counsel to deliver comprehensive legal advice across commercial, contracts, GDPR, and procurement for HS2’s program of work. You will act as main legal contact for Phase 2a procurements, drafting templates and managing external counsel while ensuring compliance with UK law.

The role requires a qualified solicitor or barrister with construction or procurement experience, strong drafting ability, and excellent communication to support senior leadership and policy teams.