Lead the Legal Edge of City Transformation – Make a Real Difference in Sheffield

Sheffield City Council is an authority that leads boldly with purpose and decisiveness, putting the people and communities of Sheffield at the heart of everything it does. We work hard to deliver excellence first time, every time. Sheffield is an extraordinary place to live and work, offering the perfect balance of vibrant urban life, award-winning culture, and access to the Peak District – the UK’s oldest national park, just minutes from the city centre.

As the largest council in Yorkshire, Sheffield offers an exceptional breadth and diversity of legal work. From strategic commercial projects to complex procurement and contract law, our legal teams are instrumental in driving transformation across the city.

We’re now looking for a Senior Commercial Lawyer (£50,788 - £54,928) to join our Legal and Governance team. This is a hybrid role, offering flexibility to work from home, attend the office several times a month, and represent the Council in high-level meetings and negotiations.

Shape Strategy. Lead Teams. Deliver Impact.

As a Senior Commercial Lawyer, you’ll lead on complex legal matters and play a pivotal role in shaping the Council’s commercial legal strategy. You’ll manage and mentor legal professionals, oversee high-value projects, and ensure legal excellence across procurement, contracts, commercial governance and employment.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Leading on complex commercial, procurement, and subsidy control matters.
• Advising senior stakeholders on legal risk, governance, and compliance.
• Drafting and negotiating high-value contracts and strategic agreements.
• Managing and mentoring a team of legal professionals.
• Representing the Council in judicial reviews and other proceedings.
• Supporting the Council’s statutory and strategic functions.
• Driving innovation and continuous improvement in legal service delivery

You’ll Bring

We’re looking for a qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or FCILEX with at least three years post-qualification experience, ideally with a strong background in public sector or commercial law.

• Proven leadership and team management experience.
• Deep technical expertise in commercial and procurement law.
• Strong negotiation and drafting skills.
• Strategic thinking and the ability to influence at senior levels.
• A collaborative, solutions-focused approach.
• Confidence using legal case management systems and digital tools.

Why Join Us?

At Sheffield City Council, we support our employees to thrive both professionally and personally. Our benefits include:

• Generous Annual Leave: Starting at 26 days (plus bank holidays), rising to 31 days after five years. Options to buy extra leave or take career breaks.
• Outstanding Pension Contributions: 19% employer contribution via the LGPS.
• Flexible Working: Hybrid, part-time, job share, and term-time options available.
• Health & Wellbeing Support: Occupational Health, eye care vouchers, and a confidential Employee Assistance Programme.
• Inclusive Culture: Join employee networks and equality hubs.
• Learning & Development: Access to e-learning, coaching, and professional development resources.

If you’re ready to lead, influence, and make a lasting impact, we’d love to hear from you.

To apply, please send your CV and cover letter to , quoting Senior Commercial Lawyer in the subject line.