At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex property transactions and provide strategic legal support on major projects.
- Company: Join Ashford Borough Council, committed to public service and community impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in local government while advancing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor or Barrister with 5+ years' experience in property law.
- Other info: Supportive team environment with excellent career growth potential.
The predicted salary is between 58488 - 63225 £ per year.
Location: Ashford, Kent
Salary: £58,488 to £63,225 pa depending on skills and experience. Plus Enhanced Recruitment Payment on joining of 10% of starting salary & lease car subsidy or cash alternative of £3,050 pa.
Job Type: Full time, Permanent
Working Hours: 37 hours per week
Closing Date: 10th December 2025
Are you a seasoned legal professional with a passion for property law and public service? We are looking for an experienced Senior Property and Projects Lawyer to join our Legal Services team and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our borough. This is a high-impact position advising on complex legal matters across the Council's commercial, residential, and community property portfolios. You will also provide strategic legal support on major development and regeneration projects, working with limited supervision and in close collaboration with senior officers and multidisciplinary teams.
Key Responsibilities:
- Leading on high-value and complex property transactions including acquisitions, disposals, leases, licences, and development agreements.
- Acting as the Council's principal legal negotiator in commercial property and development projects.
- Providing legal advice on regeneration initiatives, infrastructure agreements, and land rights.
- Drafting and negotiating robust legal documentation to protect the Council's interests.
- Supporting corporate governance and attending committee meetings as legal advisor.
- Mentoring junior legal staff and contributing to the continuous improvement of legal service.
About you:
To excel in this role it is essential that you are a Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of CILEx with a current or eligible practising certificate, have a minimum 5 years' post-qualification experience, as well as having:
- Strong expertise in land and property law, including commercial landlord and tenant matters.
- Proven track record in complex negotiations and legal drafting.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to advise senior stakeholders.
- Competence in managing a varied caseload independently.
Experience in planning law, commercial contracts, procurement, company or charity law would be desirable along with an understanding of corporate governance and the role of elected members. This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in local government while advancing your legal career. You will be part of a supportive team committed to excellence, innovation, and public service.
Benefits:
- Hybrid Working - We are an organisation that puts people first and understands how important employee wellbeing is. We want to help you to balance your working life and home life and offer flexible ways of working to help structure your life in a positive and productive way; both at home and in the office.
- Excellent salary linked pension scheme.
- Generous annual leave with flexi time.
- Free life insurance.
- Supportive relocation package.
- Opportunities for training and development.
Additional Information: With devolution news and talks evolving across the country for local authorities, we understand that there may be some uncertainty for those currently serving within the sector. Although Kent and Medway have not been included in the Devolution Priority Programme, discussions continue in this area. Kent, Medway and all District and Borough Councils in the Southeast will continue to work closely with each other to deliver vital services to our communities. This is an exciting, but stable time to join our organisation. Ashford Borough Council recognises the need to ensure the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults when they come into contact with the services we provide. We welcome applications from the Armed Forces Community.
Please click the APPLY button and you will be redirected to the council's website to complete your application.
Candidates with experience or relevant job titles of; Commercial Solicitor, Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, Corporate Solicitor, Corporate Lawyer, In House Legal Counsel, Company Lawyer, Construction Law, Project Management, Projects Law, Legal Contracts, Government Law, Property Lawyer may also be considered for this role.
Locations
Senior Property Projects Lawyer in Ashford, Kent employer: Ashford Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Ashford Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Property Projects Lawyer in Ashford, Kent
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who have experience in property law. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the council's recent projects and initiatives. This will show that you're genuinely interested in the role and ready to contribute to their goals right from the start.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Senior Property Projects Lawyer, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to handle complex negotiations. Role-play with a friend or mentor to sharpen your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making an impact in local government.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Property Projects Lawyer in Ashford, Kent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Property Projects Lawyer role. Highlight your experience in property law, complex negotiations, and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about property law and public service. Share specific examples of your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities of the role. Let us know why you’re the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a Senior Property Projects Lawyer, excellent communication is key. In your application, demonstrate your ability to convey complex legal concepts clearly. Whether it's through your CV or cover letter, we want to see how you can effectively communicate with senior stakeholders.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important information. Plus, it shows us that you’re keen to join our team at Ashford Borough Council!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ashford Borough Council
✨Know Your Property Law Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the latest developments in property law, especially those relevant to local government. Be prepared to discuss specific cases or legislation that could impact the role, as this will show your passion and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Since this role involves complex negotiations, think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated challenging discussions. Prepare to explain your approach and the outcomes, as this will demonstrate your capability as a principal legal negotiator.
✨Understand the Council's Vision
Research Ashford Borough Council’s current projects and initiatives. Being able to articulate how your skills can contribute to their goals will set you apart. It shows that you’re not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in making a difference in the community.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or the council's future plans. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.