Justinia Lewis

Director - Commercial Law Group

HM Government - Government Legal Function

United Kingdom

Coming from a farming background in East Anglia, I started my career working in local offices before exploring the world through teaching and travel, which inspired me to pursue higher education. I earned a first-class law degree in my late twenties and qualified as a lawyer in the City by 30.

My career spans top private sector law firms and transformative roles in the public sector. I have successfully grown and led high-performing legal teams in central government, focusing on complex procurement, contract management, litigation, and strategic governance. My leadership includes pivotal roles in delivering legal aid, relaunching the child maintenance scheme, supporting Brexit preparations, and leading a dedicated COVID-19 commercial law response.

Since May 2021, I have served as Commercial Law Director for the Government Legal Department’s Commercial Law Group, overseeing 270+ staff across 16 departments. My work emphasizes diversity, inclusion, wellbeing, and fostering a collaborative culture to ensure the delivery of efficient, impactful legal services.

Specialties: Contract, procurement, and employment law in complex central government/professional services environments. Interested in legal team management and development.