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- Tasks: Lead the development of a new Planning & Environmental practice and provide expert legal advice.
- Company: Join one of Northern Ireland's most innovative corporate law firms with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, performance rewards, and excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape a new practice area while working on high-profile projects in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with 7-10 years' experience in planning and environmental law is essential.
- Other info: Mentorship opportunities available as you build and lead a new team.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
LEADERSHIP ROLE – PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT SOLICITOR
We are working with one of Northern Ireland’s most innovative and progressive corporate and commercial law firms. As expected, they offer a long standing reputation for delivering high-value and complex legal solutions across sectors such as energy, real estate, construction and corporate finance. They have a portfolio of clients including developers, financial institutions, public bodies, and international businesses.Based on a sustained period of growth and commercial aspirations, the firm continues to invest in strategic growth areas and is now looking to build a market-leading Planning & Environmental function. This is a senior-level appointment with significant opportunity to shape direction, build a team, and engage in some of the most complex and high-profile projects across the region.
Focus is on:
- Lead the development and delivery of a new Planning & Environmental practice within the firm.
- Provide expert advice on planning law, environmental regulation, impact assessments, planning appeals, enforcement, and permitting issues.
- Act as primary advisor to developers, energy companies, local authorities, and commercial clients.
- Represent clients at public inquiries and planning hearings.
- Collaborate with colleagues across real estate, construction, corporate, and energy teams.
- Mentor and support junior lawyers as the team grows.
Essential Experience
- Qualified solicitor in NI and ideally ROI/E&W (welcomed bonus).
- Minimum of 7–10 years’ PQE with a specialist background in planning and environmental law.
- Significant experience advising on planning applications, environmental permitting, statutory compliance, EIA, and enforcement issues.
- Strong track record of handling complex matters involving both public and private sector clients.
- Demonstrated leadership capabilities and experience managing teams or leading initiatives.
- Excellent communication and client-handling skills.
Key Attributes
- Strategic thinker with a commercial mindset.
- Confident leading client engagements and managing high-stakes legal matters.
- Able to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
- Entrepreneurial spirit with a drive to build a new area of practice.
What We Offer
- A senior leadership opportunity in a dynamic and respected law firm.
- Competitive salary and benefits, including performance-based rewards.
- Real opportunity to influence and shape a new practice area.
- Supportive, collegiate environment with excellent career progression prospects.
- Access to high-profile and technically challenging work across NI, ROI, and GB markets.
To apply, please submit your CV or contact Alan Braithwaite for more information. #J-18808-Ljbffr
Planning and Environment Solicitor – Leadership role employer: Abacus Professional Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Abacus Professional Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning and Environment Solicitor – Leadership role
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the planning and environmental law sector. Attend industry events, seminars, or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and clients. Building relationships can give you insights into the firm’s culture and expectations.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by engaging in relevant community or professional initiatives. Whether it's mentoring junior lawyers or leading projects, demonstrating your ability to lead will make you a more attractive candidate for this senior role.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and challenges in planning and environmental law. Being well-versed in current issues will not only prepare you for interviews but also show your commitment to the field and your proactive approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific examples of complex legal matters you've handled. Highlighting your experience with public and private sector clients will demonstrate your capability to manage high-stakes situations effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning and Environment Solicitor – Leadership role
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Planning and Environment Solicitor role. Familiarise yourself with the firm's focus areas and the specific skills they are looking for.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight your relevant experience in planning and environmental law. Emphasise your leadership capabilities, client engagement skills, and any significant projects you've managed that align with the firm's needs.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the role and the firm. Discuss your strategic thinking, entrepreneurial spirit, and how you can contribute to building their new Planning & Environmental practice.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, be sure to detail your PQE and any specific cases or projects that demonstrate your expertise in planning applications, environmental permitting, and managing complex legal matters. This will show your suitability for the senior-level position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Abacus Professional Recruitment Ltd
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As this is a leadership role, be prepared to discuss your previous experiences in managing teams and leading initiatives. Highlight specific examples where you successfully guided a team through complex legal matters or projects.
✨Demonstrate Your Expertise
Make sure to articulate your knowledge in planning and environmental law clearly. Be ready to discuss recent changes in legislation, significant cases, and how they might impact clients in the sectors relevant to the firm.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world scenarios. Think about past cases you've handled and be ready to explain your approach to overcoming challenges, particularly in high-stakes situations.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since the role involves working with cross-functional teams, share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with other departments or stakeholders. This will demonstrate your ability to work effectively within a team-oriented environment.
