3 months contract with a Local Authority Job Summary: • Herefordshire Council is seeking an experienced Lawyer – Contracts and Major Projects to join the Contracts and Major Projects Team within Legal Services. • This is a temporary locum post for approximately 14 weeks (3 months), providing high-quality legal advice, drafting, and support on a wide range of contractual, commercial, procurement and project-related matters. • The successful candidate will be a qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive (CILEX) with demonstrable experience in contracts and major projects work, including construction-related agreements such as JCT or NEC4 forms. Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample): • Provide specialist legal advice and support on contracts, procurement, grants, and major projects across the Council. • Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of commercial contracts, including JCT and NEC4 construction contracts, consultancy agreements, funding and grant documentation, and service-level agreements. • Advise client departments on procurement law, public contracts regulations, and contract management best practice. • Ensure all contractual documentation complies with the Council’s governance, standing orders, and public-sector procurement obligations. • Support and advise project boards and senior officers on key risks, liabilities, and mitigation strategies. • Liaise effectively with external solicitors, counsel, and contractors to achieve timely and cost-effective outcomes. • Contribute to continuous improvement within the Contracts and Major Projects Team, promoting efficient and collaborative working practices. Skills/Experience: • Strong experience in contract drafting, negotiation, and interpretation across a range of complex matters. • Detailed knowledge of JCT and/or NEC4 standard form construction contracts. • Sound understanding of public procurement law, local government powers, and commercial governance frameworks. • Demonstrated ability to advise on grant funding, service contracts, and major infrastructure projects. • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong attention to detail. • • Proven ability to manage a varied workload, prioritise effectively, and work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team. • Confident in liaising with senior stakeholders, project managers, and external partners. Additional Information: • The closing date: 09/11/2025. • The role is based in Hereford (Plough Lane offices). • Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive (CILEX) with at least 2 years’ PQE (post-qualification experience) in commercial contracts or public-sector projects. • Hours: 37 per week.