Principal Lawyer, Procurement and Commercial
An opportunity has arisen for an experienced procurement and commercial lawyer to take a senior leadership role within a high-performing legal team.
This role sits within a large, collaborative legal, governance and compliance service working at the heart of major regional programmes. The organisation is delivering a wide range of infrastructure, transport, regeneration, digital and skills projects that are shaping the future of the region.
The Role
You will lead the Procurement and Commercial function, managing a small team of lawyers and legal officers while providing senior advice on high value and complex public procurements. The work includes drafting, negotiating and interpreting commercial contracts across construction, infrastructure, IT, regeneration, public transport and consultancy arrangements.
Key Responsibilities
* Taking the strategic lead on major procurements and commercial contract negotiations.
* Ensuring statutory compliance and providing clear, practical solutions on procurement, contract law and risk management.
* Working closely with senior officers, directors and external partners.
* Leading, developing and motivating the team to deliver a proactive, high-quality legal service.
* Contributing to wider commercial strategy and supporting the implementation of major programmes and projects.
About You
* Qualified solicitor, barrister or CILEX Fellow
* Experience in public sector procurement
* Experience advising on high value commercial contracts
* Strong drafting, negotiation and analytical skills.
* The ability to work confidently with senior stakeholders
Package
* Salary is £56,481, with a pay award pending and scope to progress to £65,116
* Hybrid and flexible working, with a generous flexi-time scheme.
* 28 days’ annual leave, plus bank holidays, increasing with service.
* Free bus and rail travel across West Yorkshire (Zones 1–5).
* A highly competitive Local Government Pension Scheme.
* Funded professional development and regular training.
* Three paid volunteering days each year.
* Wellbeing support, including counselling services.
* Modern offices in a prime central Leeds location, two minutes from the train station.