At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a leading Agricultural Property team and advise on exciting rural and development matters.
- Company: Freeths, a top-tier law firm with a collaborative culture and expert team.
- Benefits: Competitive rewards, recognition for great work, and opportunities for personal development.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the agricultural sector while working with prestigious clients.
- Qualifications: Relevant legal experience and strong commercial acumen required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About The Freeths Agricultural Property Team - Oxford
Our specialist Agricultural Property team advises clients with interests in rural, agricultural and development matters. The team acts for some of the largest estates in the UK and is ranked in the top tier of both The Legal 500 and Chambers as nationally recognised experts. The Agricultural Property team is largely based in our Oxford office and is widely recognised as the leading and largest standalone team in the region. Comprising 2 partners, 2 directors, 1 managing associate, 4 senior associates, and 2 legal assistants, the team is a key part of the Freeths Real Estate team which is the largest department in Freeths. The national Agricultural team is headed by Iain Davis who is based in our Oxford office. Iain is ranked as a Leading Individual (Chambers & Partners) and recognised as a Recommended Lawyer and Leading Individual in The Legal 500 for Agriculture and Estates.
About The Role
The team is in expansion mode due to client demand and is looking for a further lawyer to join them. We have two roles – one role would suit a lawyer with NQ - 2 years and the second would suit 2 to 4 years' experience gained within a strong regional or City firm. Your experience will have synergies with the current team who act for landed estates, Oxford Colleges, farmers and landowners, advising on the whole gamut of agricultural and development work.
Examples of the team's recent work:
- Sale of a large block of agricultural land adjoining Milton Keynes for £189m, having advised on the grant of the Option which underlay the sale.
- Promotion Agreement and Collaboration Agreement for 320 acres of land to form one of the 14 Promotion Agreements covering 460 acres forming the Oxfordshire Cotswolds Garden Village.
- Acquisition of a landed estate including 200+ acres, listed farmhouse and buildings, riparian and railway frontages and entitlements, settled at a value of over £3 million.
- A £12.6 million refinance of farm, dairy unit and farm cottages to include redemption of existing charges over 1,850 acres and four new charges over 650 acres.
Key Responsibilities:
- To work to a consistently high level and to provide an exemplary level of client service and care.
- Competent financial management and commercial awareness, including accurate time recording, billing, achievement of firm delivered targets and management of WIP.
- To contribute actively toward business development opportunities to ensure the retention of existing clients and expansion of business.
- To ensure at all times that you maintain up to date technical expertise.
- To be accountable for your own personal development and to continuously develop interpersonal and soft skills.
- To be competent at all times in accordance with the SRA competence standards.
- To carry out any other such reasonable tasks that may be required from time to time.
Your skills and qualifications:
- Have directly relevant previous experience and have the correct level of post qualified experience (PQE) for the role in question.
- To have a strong commercial acumen and understanding of the industry and business of the client.
- A proven track record of competent financial management, ability to meet client expectations and sound case management skills.
- Good IT skills, experience, and confidence with using case management systems, electronic time recording and general Microsoft packages.
- To be a self-starting, friendly individual with excellent interpersonal skills.
- To be able to consistently demonstrate and embody the firm's values.
Agricultural Property Associate or Senior Associate - Oxford employer: Freeths LLP
Freeths is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Oxford where you can thrive as part of the leading Agricultural Property team. With a strong focus on employee recognition and development, we provide outstanding benefits and opportunities for growth, ensuring that your contributions are celebrated and rewarded. Join us to work alongside nationally recognised experts and be part of a collaborative culture that values innovation and excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Agricultural Property Associate or Senior Associate - Oxford
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Freeths LLP often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Agricultural Property Associate or Senior Associate - Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Freeths LLP does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Freeths LLP
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Freeths LLP will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Freeths LLP.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Freeths LLP.