Principal Commercial & Procurement Lawyer | Preston

Overview

In this role, you provide expert commercial and procurement guidance to support large-scale public services and transformation programmes. You will work with senior leaders and project teams to shape decisions, manage risk, and secure robust, commercially sound outcomes. You’ll draft complex contracts, lead on high-value procurement exercises, and mentor the legal team to deliver strategic legal support across a large, ambitious organisation. This is a senior, impact-focused position within Lancashire County Council’s Legal Services.

Pay / Benefits

• competitive salary
• Local Government Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions
• 26 days annual leave plus holidays and buyable leave
• Vivup staff discount scheme
• development and career opportunities
• opportunity to shape public services

Responsibilities

• Provide expert advice on a diverse portfolio of commercial and procurement matters for major projects
• Support corporate priorities and innovative service delivery models
• Advise on high-value procurement exercises and development of commercial strategy
• Draft complex contracts and commercial agreements
• Provide technical leadership and mentor colleagues
• Contribute to the development of a high-performing legal team
• Engage with senior leaders and stakeholders to shape decisions and manage risk

Key requirements

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive with substantial commercial and procurement experience
• Extensive expertise in commercial and procurement matters
• Experience advising on complex, high-value strategic projects
• Strong contract drafting, negotiation and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to provide clear, pragmatic advice on complex legal issues
• Confidence engaging with senior leaders and influencing key decisions
• Collaborative approach and a passion for developing others

• collaboration
• stakeholder management
• leadership/mentoring
• contract drafting
• negotiation
• procurement law

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