At a Glance
- Tasks: Advise on planning law matters and lead client relationships in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Leading UK and international law firm with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Competitive remuneration, partnership package, and long-term career development.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with excellent cross-referral networks and growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of planning practice with high-quality projects and strong client relationships.
- Qualifications: UK qualified solicitor with significant planning law experience and a client following.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 € per year.
A leading UK and international law firm is seeking to appoint an experienced Planning Law Partner to join its established and highly regarded London office. This is a strategic senior hire, offering an excellent platform for an ambitious partner to further develop their practice within a supportive, well-resourced and collaborative environment.
This full-service law firm has a strong domestic and international presence, advising a diverse client base that includes multinational corporations, developers, financial institutions, public bodies, and high-net-worth individuals. Known for its client-first approach and sector expertise, the firm has built a strong reputation across real estate, infrastructure, private wealth, and specialist industries.
With a longstanding heritage and a modern outlook, the firm combines technical excellence with a genuinely collegiate culture. Its planning team is particularly well integrated with real estate, construction, and disputes colleagues, enabling seamless delivery on complex, high-value development projects across the UK.
This is an exciting opportunity for a Planning Partner with a proven track record and a portable client following of circa £500,000 to join a growing and forward-thinking team. You will play a key role in shaping the future of the planning practice, working closely with other senior stakeholders while benefiting from the firm’s strong existing client relationships and cross-referral opportunities.
Key Responsibilities:
- Advising on a broad range of planning law matters, including major development schemes, infrastructure projects, and regeneration work
- Acting on compulsory purchase orders (CPOs), planning appeals, and judicial review matters
- Providing strategic advice on National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and related legislative developments
- Supporting clients including developers, landowners, promoters, local authorities, and investors
- Collaborating with colleagues across real estate, construction, and litigation teams to deliver a joined-up service
- Leading client relationships and contributing to business development initiatives
- Mentoring and developing junior lawyers within the team
About You:
- UK qualified solicitor with significant experience in planning law
- Existing client following of at least £500,000
- Strong technical expertise across contentious and non-contentious planning matters
- Commercially minded with a strategic approach to client development
- A collaborative team player who values a collegiate and supportive culture
- Keen to play an active role in the growth and direction of the practice
Why Apply?
- Join a well-established yet growing planning team with high-quality work
- Access to a strong pipeline of major development and infrastructure projects
- Genuine opportunity to shape and expand your practice
- Collaborative culture with excellent cross-referral networks
- Competitive remuneration and partnership package
- Long-term career development within a firm that values autonomy and entrepreneurship
This role represents an excellent opportunity for an established Planning Partner or an ambitious Legal Director/Senior Associate ready to step up, looking to align their practice with a firm that offers both stability and growth.
For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please get in touch.
BCL Legal is an equal opportunities employer.
Planning Partner in City of London employer: BCL Legal
Join a prestigious international law firm in London that champions a collaborative and supportive work culture, offering exceptional opportunities for professional growth and development. With access to high-quality projects and a strong client base, you will thrive in an environment that values technical excellence and strategic thinking, while enjoying competitive remuneration and a genuine chance to shape the future of the planning practice.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Partner in City of London
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to former colleagues or contacts. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Use platforms like LinkedIn to share your insights on planning law and related topics. Write articles or posts that highlight your knowledge and experience. This not only positions you as an expert but also attracts potential employers who are looking for someone with your skills.
✨Ace the Informal Chat
When you get the chance for an informal chat or coffee with someone from the firm, make it count! Prepare some thoughtful questions about their work and the firm’s culture. This shows your genuine interest and helps you stand out from other candidates.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Partner in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Planning Partner role. Highlight your expertise in planning law and any relevant client relationships to show us why you're the perfect fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us about your passion for planning law, your strategic approach to client development, and how you envision contributing to our collaborative culture.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Whether it's successful projects or significant client wins, we want to see how you've made an impact in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at BCL Legal
✨Know Your Planning Law Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of planning law, especially the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and recent legislative changes. Be prepared to discuss how these impact major development schemes and infrastructure projects, as this will show your expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Showcase Your Client Relationships
Since a portable client following is crucial for this position, be ready to talk about your existing clients and how you've successfully managed those relationships. Highlight any significant deals or projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to bring in business and maintain strong connections.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
This firm values a collegiate culture, so be sure to share examples of how you've collaborated with colleagues across different teams, such as real estate or construction. Discussing specific instances where teamwork led to successful outcomes will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Think about how you can contribute to the growth and direction of the planning practice. Prepare to discuss your strategic approach to client development and how you envision expanding the firm's reach in the planning sector. This shows you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in shaping the future of the practice.
