Commercial Solicitor

Overview

As a Commercial Lawyer with Gateshead Council, you will provide expert advice on commercial contracts and public sector procurement to support council priorities. You’ll handle a mix of matters—from construction and IT contracts to grants and joint ventures—ensuring compliance with governance frameworks. You’ll work closely with services and senior officers to enable lawful, value-driven procurement and contract activity. This role offers hybrid working, a focus on impact, and opportunities to shape procurement in a forward-looking public-sector environment.

Pay / Benefits

• competitive salary
• outstanding pension scheme
• generous annual leave
• flexible working hours
• hybrid & flexible working
• learning & development opportunities

Responsibilities

• Provide advice on commercial contracts and public sector procurement matters (construction, IT, grants, joint ventures, subsidy control)
• Stay up-to-date with legislation and guidance (Public Contracts Regulations 2015, Procurement Act 2023, Subsidy Control Act 2022) to advise accurately
• Apply and advise on the Council’s Contract Procedure Rules and governance procedures
• Manage procurement tenders and commercial contracts end-to-end
• Build relationships with internal clients and external stakeholders
• Instruct external specialists when needed
• Maintain close contact with the Service Manager on issues
• Provide concise, complex legal advice to senior officers and directors at board/committee meetings
• Respond to reasonable requests to undertake other duties appropriate to the grade

Key requirements

• Legally qualified professional (solicitor, barrister, or fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives) with current practicing certificate
• Desire to develop deep expertise in commercial/public procurement law and related policies
• Strong client-focused approach with ability to build trust and provide practical advice
• Excellent research, drafting, and analytical skills for concise legal documents
• Highly organized with ability to manage a varied caseload and meet deadlines
• Clear, confident communicator able to explain complex issues and negotiate with stakeholders
• Experience in corporate clients or local government environment, or ability to adapt to public sector context
• Experience in commercial/public procurement or contract law or transferable skills with motivation to specialize

• client-focused
• excellent communication
• analytical thinking
• Public Contracts Regulations 2015
• Procurement Act 2023
• Subsidy Control Act 2022

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