Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting projects in real estate planning and support junior team members.
- Company: Join DWF, an award-winning global legal business with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Flexible location, hybrid working, and a supportive environment for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in major developments and infrastructure projects.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with experience in planning law and excellent communication skills.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are at our core; we welcome all applicants.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We are recruiting for a Legal Director to join our growing Real Estate Planning team at DWF, an award-winning global legal business. This role will work on a variety of projects, including major development, nationally significant infrastructure and compulsory purchase led regeneration matters. This position offers an excellent opportunity for professional growth and development within a supportive environment.
We offer flexibility on location, allowing for the position to be based out of any one of our offices in Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Leeds or Newcastle and offer a hybrid working arrangement.
Responsibilities
- Lead and/or support wider project teams in the promotion of DCOs, CPOs and managing Planning Appeals;
- Draft and review planning related legal agreements for developers, lenders and public sector clients;
- Conduct legal research and analysis on planning law and related matters;
- Support real estate colleagues in supervising or undertaking planning due diligence;
- Provide advice to clients on planning regulations, policies, and procedures;
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of planning law and policy changes;
- Prioritise work effectively to maximise efficiency in working practices and maintain good service delivery, adhering to all necessary timetables/deadlines;
- Support, supervise and mentor more junior members in the team;
- Build working relationships internally and externally in order to maintain key client relationships and develop business networks.
What will help you succeed in this role?
- Qualified solicitor with significant projects, regeneration, development and/or infrastructure experience.
- Experience in drafting and reviewing various planning agreements and legal documents.
- Ability to advise on compulsory purchase compensation, judicial reviews and legal challenges.
- Confident promoting Development Consent Orders (DCOs) and Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs).
- Adept at conducting planning due diligence for acquisitions and financing and handling planning enforcement actions.
- Experienced in advising on statutory undertaker permitted development rights for utilities and telecommunications.
- Excellent legal analysis, drafting, and communication skills.
- Willingness to participate and develop business development opportunities and client relationships.
What we offer?
We are committed to ensuring that each member of our team feels valued and duly rewarded during their time at DWF. We are an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. We aim to create a positive experience for all candidates and offer any adjustments or additional support needed. If you’re excited about the opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with all the requirements, please apply anyway. You may be the right candidate for the role or others across the wider team.
About us
DWF is a leading global provider of integrated legal and business services. Our approach delivers efficiency, price certainty and transparency for our clients across the world without compromising on quality or service. Our purpose is to deliver positive outcomes with our colleagues, clients and communities and we foster a culture that places our colleagues at the centre of all that we do.
Director - Planning employer: DWF Law LLP
Contact Detail:
DWF Law LLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director - Planning
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal and planning sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Director role!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching DWF and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their recent work in major developments and infrastructure. This will help you showcase how your experience aligns with their needs and demonstrate your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your background in planning law and project management makes you the ideal candidate. Highlight specific examples of your past successes, especially those related to DCOs and CPOs.
✨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 at DWF and are keen to contribute to our exciting projects.
We think you need these skills to ace Director - Planning
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in projects, regeneration, and infrastructure. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Legal Director, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Legal Expertise: When writing your application, emphasise your experience in drafting planning agreements and advising on compulsory purchase compensation. We’re looking for someone who can demonstrate their legal prowess, so be specific about your past roles and responsibilities.
Communicate Clearly: Your written communication skills are key! Make sure your application is clear, concise, and free of jargon. We appreciate a straightforward approach, so let your personality shine through while maintaining professionalism.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about DWF and what we stand for!
How to prepare for a job interview at DWF Law LLP
✨Know Your Planning Law
Brush up on the latest changes in planning law and regulations. Being able to discuss recent developments or landmark cases will show your expertise and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Showcase Your Project Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past projects that highlight your experience with DCOs, CPOs, and planning appeals. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Director, you'll be expected to lead and mentor others. Be ready to share how you've successfully managed teams or supported junior colleagues in previous roles, showcasing your leadership style.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
Take the time to connect with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their experiences at DWF and express genuine interest in the company culture. This can help you stand out as a candidate who fits well within the team.
