Principal Lawyer (Procurement & Commercial) - #2175215

Principal Lawyer (Procurement & Commercial)

Are you an experienced commercial or public procurement lawyer looking for a role where you can combine high-value legal work with strategic influence and team leadership?

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority is looking for a Principal Lawyer (Procurement & Commercial) to take a leading role in its complex procurement and commercial work, supporting major projects and programmes that will help shape the region's future.

This is an opportunity to work at the intersection of law, commerce and public sector delivery, advising on significant projects while helping to shape a proactive, commercially focused legal service.

You'll take the strategic lead on complex, high-value public procurements, drafting and negotiating commercial contracts, advising on legal and commercial risk, and helping ensure projects are delivered effectively and in compliance with relevant legislation.

Your work will span a broad range of areas, including:

• Major infrastructure and construction projects, alongside regeneration and energy initiatives.
• Complex commercial contracts, including major IT and software purchases, consultancy arrangements and framework agreements.
• Public procurement law, advising on regulations, tender procedures and statutory compliance.
• Contract disputes and risk management, protecting the Combined Authority's position and supporting effective dispute resolution.
• Strategic leadership, managing and developing the procurement legal team, coaching colleagues and building strong relationships with senior officers and external stakeholders.
• You'll also work closely with Commercial Services, horizon-scan for changes in law and policy, and help develop best practice across the organisation.

What makes this opportunity interesting?

• Work with real strategic significance. Advise on complex procurement projects and programmes across West Yorkshire, with the opportunity to influence how major initiatives are delivered.
• Combine technical expertise with leadership. Take ownership of high-value legal matters while developing a team and contributing to the direction of the wider Legal Commercial Service.
• A broad and varied workload. From infrastructure and regeneration to technology, energy and public services, you'll work across a diverse range of commercial matters.
• A genuinely flexible approach. Hybrid working with two days in the Leeds office, alongside flexible and agile working options and a generous flexi-time scheme.

The benefits

• 28 days' annual leave, increasing with length of service, plus bank holidays.
• Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Free bus and rail travel across West Yorkshire using an MCard covering Zones 1–5.
• Fully funded professional development and regular training.
• Up to three paid volunteering days per year.
• Enhanced parental and bereavement leave.
• Access to 24/7 confidential counselling and the Headspace app for you and up to five family members or friends.
• Modern offices just short walk from Leeds railway station.

Who might this suit?

An experienced solicitor with strong expertise in public procurement and commercial contracts, who is comfortable handling complex, high-value matters and advising senior stakeholders.