Principal Lawyer

Lawyers In Local Government; Horsham; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional governance organization is seeking a Principal Lawyer to lead a team and provide expert legal advice on complex matters including contracts and procurement. This leadership role focuses on delivering high-quality legal services across the organization. The ideal candidate will possess significant legal experience and thrive in collaborative, fast-paced environments. This position supports strategic initiatives and ensures legal compliance within the authority.

Qualifications

• Experience in contracts and general commercial matters.
• Experience advising on company/joint venture structures and subsidy control issues desirable.
• Ability to manage a varied caseload and advise in politically sensitive environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of legal professionals providing expert advice.
• Deliver high-quality legal services across the organization.
• Shape the future of legal services and champion innovation.

Skills

Leadership

Legal advice on complex matters

Experience in contracts and procurement

Strategic thinking

Job description

Location: The Lumen, St James' Boulevard, Newcastle upon Tyne, various ‘spoke’ offices throughout the North East and remote working arrangements

Salary: £60,177 - £63,715 per annum

Contract: Full-time, Permanent

Reporting to: Assistant Director Legal and Governance

Closing Date: 25 November 2025

We’re looking for a dynamic and experienced Principal Lawyer to join the North East Combined Authority’s Legal Services team and take a key leadership role in the delivery of high-quality legal services across the organisation. You’ll play a vital part in ensuring effective governance, legal compliance, and strategic alignment, helping the North East CA deliver its priorities with confidence and integrity.

As Principal Lawyer, You’ll Lead a Team Of Legal Professionals, Providing Expert Advice On Complex And Often Unprecedented Legal Matters Across a Range Of Disciplines, With a Particular Focus On

• contracts and general commercial matters; and
• commissioning and procurement.

Experience in these areas is essential. Experience of advising on company/joint venture structures and subsidy control issues is also desirable.

You’ll manage a varied caseload, support high-profile projects, and advise senior officers and members in politically sensitive environments.

This is a role for a forward-thinking legal professional who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. You’ll help shape the future of legal services, champion innovation, and ensure that the North East CA remains resilient and legally sound. If you’re ready to make a strategic impact and lead with integrity, we’d love to hear from you.

We are proud to be an inclusive employer, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, communities and experiences. We particularly encourage applications from candidates who are underrepresented including women, disabled people, LGBTQ+ people and those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds.

Job Description

If you would like an informal discussion or further information about this role, please contact John Softly, Assistant Director of Legal and Governance [e-mail] or 0191 2771072

Closing date for applications: 25 November 2025

For further information about the North East Combined Authority please see the authority’s website www.northeast-ca.gov.uk