Overview
The Environment Agency seeks a Senior Lawyer in the Commercial Law Team to provide high-quality, risk-based legal advice on a broad range of commercial matters and to support the Agency’s objectives in areas such as public procurement, dispute resolution, IP, externally funded projects, and collaborations with public bodies, charities, and research bodies.
Responsibilities
* Give accurate, risk-based legal advice at the forefront of a broad spectrum of commercial matters, from public procurement to dispute resolution, and from intellectual property to Net Zero and Biodiversity Net Gain.
* Manage your own caseload, giving clear risk-based advice and finding solutions to complex and sensitive matters.
* Advise all levels of the organisation across the spectrum of commercial law, including public procurement, civil litigation and dispute resolution, intellectual property, externally funded projects, and collaborations with other public bodies, charities, and research bodies.
* Work alongside other legal teams and specialisms within the Environment Agency and with Government Legal Services.
Experience and Skills Required
* An excellent track record of handling technical issues and negotiating and advising on commercial contracts in a public sector context.
* First-class communication, influencing and analytical skills with up-to-date knowledge of commercial law; experience in civil litigation and general public law is useful. Knowledge of construction law or dispute resolution is helpful.
* A quick learning style with the ability to rapidly grasp new legal issues and apply them in a commercial or other legal context.
* Proficiency in producing detailed legal briefings for senior levels (including directors, boards, and government officials) and composing responses to challenging external inquiries.
* The ability to provide guidance to managers, officers, and fellow lawyers on the strategic direction and management of casework.
* Strong influencing and persuasive abilities, capable of engaging and convincing individuals at all levels, including organisational leaders.
Requirements
* You must be an English law-qualified solicitor, barrister or legal executive (with a current practising certificate) or otherwise have the right to practice English law.
* Role-specific notes: Environment Agency is not part of HM Civil Service; eligibility for continuous service may vary if coming from civil service or local government. Please consult HR if unsure of status.
* We welcome flexible working patterns, including job share. Please indicate any preferred working arrangements on your application.
* Guaranteed Interview Policy to support applicants with a disability meeting the minimum criteria.
* National travel may be required. Some regional postings include West Midlands, Birmingham, and surrounding areas.
Additional Information
Interviews to take place in October 2025. The Environment Agency is committed to diversity and inclusion, with a flexible working ethos and a comprehensive benefits package, including a Market Forces Factor payment.
Location
West Midlands, England, United Kingdom
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