Senior Associate, Public Sector Law & Governance

DWF; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

DWF is seeking an experienced Senior Associate to join our Government and Public Sector team in Leeds, with a flexible hybrid working approach. The role focuses on public law and procurement matters for central, regional and local government clients, delivering high-quality, commercially focused legal advice.

You will advise on governance and vires, draft and negotiate complex contracts, and mentor junior lawyers while developing enduring client relationships across DWF's national practice.

Qualifications

• Qualified solicitor with government experience in public law and commercial matters.
• Experience advising central, devolved and local government authorities.
• Strong drafting and negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage client relationships and cross-team collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Advise public sector bodies on public law and commercial issues including governance and vires/powers for central government and local government organisations.
• Draft, review and advise on a range of complex contracts, including grant funding agreements and public procurement documents.
• Work directly with clients and contribute to the development of long-term client relationships.
• Collaborate with colleagues nationally across DWF's Commercial team.
• Support business development initiatives and knowledge-sharing within the team.
• Effectively manage a varied caseload, prioritising deadlines while maintaining high service standards.
• Continuously develop technical expertise and market knowledge in public procurement law and subsidy control.
• Deliver high-quality, precise and commercially focused advice to clients.
• Mentor junior lawyers and support their development.

Skills

Public law

Governance knowledge

Drafting & negotiation

Client relationship building

Collaboration

Self-motivated

Education

Solicitor qualification

Job description

DWF is seeking an experienced Senior Associate to join our Government and Public Sector team in Leeds, with a flexible hybrid working approach. The role focuses on public law and procurement matters for central, regional and local government clients, delivering high-quality, commercially focused legal advice.

You will advise on governance and vires, draft and negotiate complex contracts, and mentor junior lawyers while developing enduring client relationships across DWF's national practice.