Job Description
Oxford OX1 (Hybrid - 1-2 days in office)Contract: 2 months | Rate: £50-£60 per hour (umbrella)Start: ASAP | *Must hold current practising certificate
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and confident Senior Lawyer & Team Leader to join a local authority legal team. You’ll lead a small team of legal professionals (approx. 6) and provide specialist legal advice in contracts and procurement law, supporting the Council’s priorities and complex projects.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage a team of lawyers, paralegals, and legal assistants.
* Act as the Council’s senior legal adviser on contracts and procurement law.
* Oversee complex caseloads with minimal supervision.
* Support directorates with risk-based legal advice and governance support.
* Develop staff and promote a strong performance and wellbeing culture.
* Contribute to continuous improvement across legal services.
* Attend court or tribunals when necessary.
Essential Criteria
* Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or CILEX Lawyer with a current practising certificate.
* Extensive experience in local government legal work.
* Strong expertise in contracts and procurement law.
* Proven leadership and team management skills.
* Excellent communication, drafting, and negotiation skills.
* Ability to work under pressure, independently and as part of a team.
* Competence in MS Office and legal case management systems.
* Able to attend the office in Oxford 1-2 days per week.
Desirable
* Experience in construction contracts and conveyancing.
* Familiarity with governance and public sector procedures.
This is an exciting opportunity to take on a strategic role in a high-performing legal team. If you are committed, collaborative, and solution-focused, we’d love to hear from you.
To apply, please send your CV.