Legal Director - Government and Public Sector

Why join us?

DWF are currently recruiting for an experienced Legal Director to join our growing Government and Public Sector practice. Our team is team is recognised nationally for its work across the public sector and is at the forefront of some of the UK's most significant procurement, regeneration and public funding projects. We are particularly recognised for our market‑leading Subsidy Control and Public Procurement practices, advising government departments, Mayoral Combined Authorities, local authorities and private sector organisations on complex and high‑profile funding programmes, procurements and regeneration projects nationwide. As a senior member of the team, you will take ownership of complex matters, lead client relationships and contribute to the strategic direction of the practice. You will work closely with partners and senior stakeholders, providing commercially focused advice, supporting business development initiatives and identifying opportunities to expand existing client relationships and grow the team's market presence. We are flexible on experience level and would welcome applications from both experienced Associates and Senior Associates. We would also consider a high‑performing Senior Associate seeking their first Director appointment. The role is ideally suited to candidates based in one of our regional offices, including Manchester, Newcastle, Leeds, Birmingham or Liverpool, with a flexible, hybrid working approach.

Responsibilities

• Advise public and private sector organisations on a broad range of commercial and public sector matters, including public procurement, commercial contracts, grant funding arrangements and Subsidy Control compliance.
• Draft, review and advise on a range of complex contracts and matters, including grant programmes, grant funding agreements and public procurement documents.
• Work directly with clients and contribute to the development of long‑term client relationships.
• Collaborate with colleagues nationally across DWF's Commercial team.
• Support business development initiatives and knowledge‑sharing within the team.
• Effectively manage a varied caseload, prioritising competing deadlines while maintaining exceptional client service standards.
• Continuously develop technical expertise and market knowledge, keeping abreast of developments in public procurement law, Subsidy Control and public funding.
• Deliver high‑quality, technically precise and commercially focused advice to clients, providing an excellent level of service.
• Play a hands‑on role in mentoring junior lawyers and supporting their development.

What will help you succeed in this role?

Essential

• A qualified solicitor with significant experience advising on public law and commercial issues including grant funding, grant programmes, public procurement and/or Subsidy Control law.
• Knowledge and appreciation of the inner workings of central, regional and local government bodies and the interaction of politics, public policy and delivery.
• Strong drafting and written communication skills, with the confidence to negotiate.
• Commercially minded and keen to understand clients’ commercial and policy objectives.
• Proven ability to build strong relationships with clients and colleagues.
• A collaborative approach to building and developing relationships with clients and colleagues.
• Self‑motivated and performance‑driven, with a commitment to delivering high‑quality legal advice.

Desirable

• Previous experience in house within the public sector or Government Legal Department would be an advantage.

What we offer?

We are committed to ensuring that each member of our team feels valued and duly rewarded during their time at DWF.

We are an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.

We aim to create a positive experience for all candidates and offer any adjustments or additional support needed.

You may be the right candidate for the role or others across the wider team.

About us

DWF is a leading global provider of integrated legal and business services.

We empower people to be themselves within an inclusive and supportive environment, enabling everyone to achieve their full potential in line with their abilities and career aspirations.

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