Legal Counsel - Procurement, Retail & IT

Post Office; City Of London; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A community service organization is seeking a Legal Counsel to support its Procurement, Retail, and IT areas. This role involves managing legal risks, negotiating contracts, and providing comprehensive legal advice. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in commercial law and demonstrate strong leadership and communication skills. This position offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including performance incentives, generous leave, and development opportunities.

Benefits

27.5 days annual leave

18% performance-based incentive

Car allowance

Generous pension contribution

Life assurance

Income protection

Employee assistance programme

Learning and development opportunities

Qualifications

• 1-6 years of experience in commercial contracts.
• Experience at a private practice law firm or as an in-house lawyer.
• Sound knowledge of corporate law.

Responsibilities

• Manage legal risks relevant to the Retail business.
• Negotiate and manage contracts.
• Provide legal advice on procurement law issues.

Skills

Commercial contracts

Leadership

Influencing and communication

Corporate law

Procurement law

Education

Eligible to practice as a solicitor in England and Wales

Post qualification experience in commercial contracts

Job description

Summary

Salary: Competitive Salary & Benefits

Grade: 3A

Reporting Line: Head of Legal - Retail, IT & Procurment

Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 12 Months

Location: London

Closing Date: 23rd December 2025

What to expect

As a Legal Counsel you will join us on our journey and undertake a valuable role supporting the Procurement, Retail and IT business area of Post Office on a broad range of commercial, technology and Procurement law matters.

Reporting to the Head of Legal - Procurement, Retail and IT, the Legal Counsel will play a key role in managing all aspects of legal risk relevant to the Post Office’s Retail business including management of commercial issues arising in connection with Post Office’s network of approx. 11,500 branches (agreements with independent and commercial partners); negotiation and management of Government, client and commercial contracts; review of key policies and operational procedures; review and management of arrangements with Government shareholder; procurement and management of commercial contracts and technology arrangements; and advice on procurement law issues.

The role requires an ability to identify and solve strategic and operational legal issues and provide succinct, accurate and timely advice to the business on a wide-ranging and changing set of complex issues, many of which are novel. A critical part of the role will be to work proactively with stakeholders to ensure that legal input is obtained on all relevant projects and other matters, and the right candidate will be comfortable dealing with and managing stakeholders directly.

Additionally, the role will support the broader Legal team to achieve their strategic objectives, for which the Legal Counsel will be required to work closely with their line manager, other Heads of Legal and colleagues across the Legal function.

What we can do for you

Now, more than ever, we understand that attracting the right talent is pivotal in driving the positive change needed throughout our organisation. Beyond a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• 27.5 days annual leave that increases with tenure
• Up to 18% Individual performance-based incentive scheme
• Car allowance
• Generous pension contribution
• Life assurance
• Income protection after 12 months service
• Full support from our employee assistance programme and access to our employee benefits platform
• Ever-evolving learning and development opportunities

Our commitment to embracing diversity extends beyond just words. We actively foster an inclusive workplace that values the unique perspectives and contributions from all colleagues. We hold the belief that Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion are not just vital but fundamental to our success and growth. Our priority lies in shaping a business that mirrors the diverse communities we reach, truly making Post Office 'Everybody's Business'. As an equal opportunity employer, we value and celebrate the differences among our people, ensuring that our practices reflect our dedication to inclusivity and equal representation for all.

What you’ll need to succeed

• 1-6 years’ post qualification experience in commercial contracts
• Experience working at a leading private practice law firm or as an in-house lawyer
• Operating at a Junior to middle management level with a proven ability to influence and communicate effectively
• Demonstrable leadership experience
• Ability to establish and maintain strong and effective working relationships with internal and external contacts
• Sound understanding and knowledge of commercial and corporate law
• Some experience of procurement law and / or public procurement law would be an advantage
• Continuing compliance with SRA / Bar Council Code of Conduct, in particular in relation to professional conduct, ethics and client care and the SRA’s / Bar Council’s
• Continuing professional development requirements and eligible to be authorised to practice as a solicitor of the Senior Courts of England and Wales and / or entitled to practice as a Barrister.

About us

Post Office is an integral part of every community, upheld by the dedication and service of our postmasters. In a world that's constantly evolving, we recognise the importance of adapting and growing. As we navigate the shifting landscapes of a digital age, our commitment to evolving is stronger than ever; without losing the essence of personal touch that defines us. Our journey forward is one of reflection, learning, and positive change.

Whilst there is much work to be done, we're looking for people ready to think differently in tackling the challenges ahead – people who possess resilience and a deep sense of responsibility towards our postmasters and the communities they serve. This mission drives us, ensuring that we remain focused on our purpose and strategic intent. If you're inspired by the prospect of making a meaningful difference and contributing to a future where Post Office can stand as a model of renewed progress and integrity, we want to hear from you. Join us on our journey in making Post Office a business that belongs to and serves everyone, shaping a new future legacy.