Associate/Senior Associate - Public Sector Contracts & Procurement

Our client is seeking a qualified Solicitor (NQ to 5 years' PQE) to join its Public Sector Contracts and Procurement team. This full-time, permanent role is available in either Birmingham or Manchester, offering a progressive hybrid working approach.

Working alongside experienced public procurement and commercial lawyers, you will advise a range of public sector clients—particularly central government departments and agencies—on procurement law and contracts. The team is appointed to several public sector frameworks and handles high-profile projects of national importance.

Role Responsibilities:

• Manage a broad caseload covering procurement contracts and agreements for local authorities, central government, and law enforcement agencies
• Advise on procurement strategy and draft procurement documentation
• Support procurement litigation on informal and formal challenges
• Negotiate tendering procedures
• Draft, review, and manage contracts, framework agreements, and call-off arrangements throughout the contract lifecycle
• Collaborate with multi-office teams to meet deadlines and manage project work
• Contribute to team development and business development initiatives, including client training

Skills & Experience Required:

• Qualified Solicitor with 0-5 years' PQE
• Strong knowledge of UK public procurement law, including the Procurement Act 2023 and Public Contracts Regulations 2015
• Experience advising on procurement processes and drafting key documentation (e.g., ITTs, specifications, notices)
• Familiarity with tendering procedures (open, restricted, negotiated, competitive dialogue) and procurement portals such as Jaggaer and Proactis
• Understanding of value for money principles, contract pricing models, and whole-life costing
• Knowledge of Cabinet Office guidance, Government Commercial Function standards, social value requirements, and sector-specific rules
• Excellent drafting, communication, and organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities
• A collaborative team player comfortable working across offices and independently
• Enthusiasm for business development and staying current with developments in public procurement

The team operates across multiple UK offices and advises on all stages of the procurement process, from pre-market engagement to award, as well as disputes and challenges. Clients include local and central government, police, and other public bodies.

Essential:

• Qualified Solicitor with 0-5 years' PQE
• Strong experience in UK public procurement law, including the Procurement Act 2023 and the Public Contracts Regulations 2015
• Experience drafting and reviewing procurement documentation and advising on procurement processes
• Familiarity with tendering procedures and procurement portals
• Excellent drafting and communication skills