Thirteen Group is on the lookout for a Principal Commercial Solicitor to join our Legal team.

We’re looking for an expert to provide commercial legal leadership across procurement, contracts and strategic supplier arrangements, as the trusted adviser to senior leaders.

You'll influence high-value commercial activity, help shape our approach to complex contractual arrangements and ensure we continue to operate with strong governance, transparency and commercial focus.

This is a hybrid role, offering a balance of home and office working. You'll be expected to spend 2 to 3 days per week working from our fantastic Hudson Quay office in Middlesbrough, with the remainder of your time working from home. As business and team needs can vary, you'll need to be adaptable and may be required to spend additional time in the office when needed.

• Provide expert advice on complex commercial, procurement and contractual legal matters, helping senior leaders make informed decisions. You’ll clearly articulate risk, opportunities and governance considerations.
• Lead on the legal strategy for high-value contracts, supplier relationships and technology agreements, influencing stakeholders to achieve strong commercial outcomes.
• Draft, review and negotiate complex contracts that protect delivery, value for money, and Thirteen’s interests.
• Resolve complex contractual issues by balancing legal, commercial and operational requirements, advising on contract variations, extensions, disputes and termination matters.
• Support procurement and commercial activity by advising on procurement routes, tender documents, governance requirements and commercial structures.
• Assess legal and commercial risk across significant or sensitive contractual matters, and direct dispute, audit and formal proceedings.

For the full job description, including the key areas of responsibilities and accountabilities, please click the 'apply now' button.

Equality is about creating a fairer society, where everyone can participate and can fulfil their potential. Therefore, at Thirteen, equality is about breaking down barriers which currently limit opportunities for certain groups of people within society.

• You’ll have solicitor status and substantial experience advising on commercial contracts, procurement and organisational governance.
• A proven ability to negotiate complex contracts with sound judgement and attention to risk.
• With a strong knowledge of commercial and procurement principles, you’ll apply them in a practical way to support compliant and effective business delivery.
• Experience advising senior stakeholders on legal issues and the ability to interpret legal risk, delegated authority, and approval requirements for complex decisions.
• Confident drafting commercial contracts and procurement documentation with clarity and precision.
• You'll be confident building trusted relationships at all levels, using clear legal reasoning, constructive challenge and practical advice to influence commercial decisions and achieve positive outcomes.