Senior Contracts Lawyer — Public Sector & Procurement

Reading Borough Council; United States; Hybrid; USD 74,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Reading Borough Council is seeking a Senior Lawyer - Contracts to join our Legal Services team. You will provide expert advice on commercial, contractual and procurement matters, working with officers, senior managers and external partners to deliver high-quality services.

You will manage a varied caseload, draft and negotiate contracts, advise on governance and risk, and mentor junior lawyers. The role supports hybrid working and public service delivery in Reading.

Qualifications

• Qualified solicitor/barrister/CILEX fellow with practising certificate.
• Experience of local government law and procurement governance.
• Strong written and verbal communication.
• Ability to manage a demanding workload and meet deadlines.
• Experience advising on complex legal matters.

Responsibilities

• Advising on public procurement exercises and procurement legislation.
• Drafting, negotiating and advising on commercial contracts and agreements.
• Supporting major projects and collaborative working arrangements.
• Advising on governance, risk management and decision-making processes.
• Providing clear legal advice to officers, managers and elected members.
• Preparing legal documentation, reports and briefings to a high standard.
• Representing the Council in negotiations with contractors and external stakeholders.
• Mentoring junior lawyers and legal support colleagues.

Skills

Contract law

Commercial contracts

Communication skills

Organisational skills

Independent working

Collaborative/teamwork

Legal governance

Risk management

Education

Qualified solicitor/barrister/CILEX fellow

Job description

Reading Borough Council is seeking a Senior Lawyer - Contracts to join our Legal Services team. You will provide expert advice on commercial, contractual and procurement matters, working with officers, senior managers and external partners to deliver high-quality services.

You will manage a varied caseload, draft and negotiate contracts, advise on governance and risk, and mentor junior lawyers. The role supports hybrid working and public service delivery in Reading.