Contracts & Procurement Solicitor (Interim)

About the role

This interim position is with a large local authority seeking an experienced public‑sector Contracts Solicitor. The role lasts 4‑6 months and offers the chance to work within a high‑performing in‑house legal team, supporting strategic projects and commercial initiatives.

Key responsibilities

• Provide specialist advice on commercial contracts and procurement matters, including variations and modifications.
• Draft, review and negotiate a range of commercial agreements.
• Support project teams on complex commercial and strategic initiatives.
• Manage legal risk and deliver practical solutions to operational challenges.
• Liaise with external advisers and internal stakeholders as required.

Required profile

• Qualified solicitor, barrister or equivalent with a current practising certificate.
• Minimum 3 years post‑qualification experience (PQE) in a public‑sector setting.
• Demonstrable experience advising on commercial contracts, public procurement law (including the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and Procurement Act 2023), funding agreements and partnership arrangements.
• Ability to manage a varied caseload with minimal supervision.
• Excellent drafting, communication and stakeholder‑management skills.

Required skills

• Knowledge of public procurement legislation and regulations.
• Experience with funding agreements and subsidy control law.
• Proficiency in drafting and negotiating commercial contracts.

What we offer

• Competitive umbrella rate of £50‑£60 per hour.
• Hybrid working – one day per week onsite, with flexibility.
• Exposure to a broad range of complex public‑sector contracts and procurement work.
• Opportunity to work within a well‑established, supportive legal team.