Principal Commercial & Procurement Lawyer | Preston

Salary 57447 to 62132 per annum Permanent Full Time 37 hours per week Preston/Hybrid

Please note that we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role

Are you an experienced Commercial and Procurement Lawyer looking for a role where your advice directly influences large-scale public services strategic transformation programmes and high-value projects

Were looking for a talented legal professional to join our highly regarded Legal Services team as a Principal Commercial & Procurement Lawyer. This is an opportunity to work at the heart of one of the largest local authorities in the country supporting complex commercial arrangements and procurement activity that make a real difference to communities across Lancashire.

The Role

As one of the Councils senior legal specialists youll provide expert advice on a diverse portfolio of commercial and procurement matters supporting major projects corporate priorities and innovative service delivery models. Youll work closely with senior leaders project teams and stakeholders across the organisation helping shape decisions manage risk and deliver successful outcomes.

From advising on high-value procurement exercises and commercial strategy to drafting complex contracts and commercial agreements youll play a pivotal role in ensuring lawful robust and commercially sound decision-making.

Youll also have the opportunity to provide technical leadership mentor colleagues and contribute to the development of a high-performing legal team.

About You

Were looking for a qualified Solicitor Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive with significant experience of commercial and procurement law. Youll bring:

• Extensive expertise in commercial and procurement matters.
• Experience advising on complex high-value strategic projects.
• Strong contract drafting negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• The ability to provide clear pragmatic advice on complex legal issues.
• Confidence engaging with senior leaders and influencing key decisions.
• A collaborative approach and a passion for developing others.

If youre ready to take the next step in your legal career and want to play a leading role in delivering strategic legal support across a large and ambitious organisation wed love to hear from you.

Closing Date: 11/10/2026

Why join us

By joining Lancashire County Council you can shape the career path that is right for you with opportunities to gain personal and professional qualifications coaching and mentoring. Lancashire County Council truly is the place where you can have the career youve always wanted.

In return for your passion and expertise we offer a generous benefits package which includes:

• A competitive salary and Local Government Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions.
• A great holiday entitlement of 26 days annual leave which increases with length of service. You will also be entitled to 8 Bank Holidays 2 additional statutory Bank Holidays and have the option to buy additional leave each year.
• Our staff discount scheme in partnership with Vivup allowing you to access discounts with a range of UK retailers saving on everything from weekly food shops to white goods and cars.
• Access to fantastic development and career opportunities.

Please ensure you upload a supporting statement demonstrating how you meet the criteria for the role.

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications.

Local Government Reorganisation

The Government has confirmed that local government across Lancashire will be reorganised with the current 15 councils being replaced by four new unitary councils covering North South East and West Lancashire from April 2028.

If you are successful in your application you will initially join Lancashire County Council. However as part of the planned transition your employment will transfer to one of the new unitary councils from April 2028 subject to the implementation of the reorganisation and relevant employment legislation.

Throughout this period our focus remains on delivering excellent services to our communities. By joining us now youll play an important role in shaping the future of local government and helping to build a strong new organisation that will serve residents for years to come.

Job Description & Person Specification