At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex planning projects and build strong client relationships.
- Company: Progressive UK law firm with a reputation for growth and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous bonuses, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Opportunity for career progression in a dynamic, modern environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of planning law in a supportive, high-performing team.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor with senior-level planning experience and client following.
The predicted salary is between 95000 - 120000 £ per year.
Salary: £95,000 - £120,000 + generous bonus
Location: Newcastle Upon Tyne City Centre
Experience: Senior Level, with client following
A senior planning opportunity with a progressive UK law firm that has delivered consistent double-digit growth in recent years and is on track to do the same again this year.
The Opportunity
You will join an established, high-performing planning practice that is continuing to grow, with a strong existing client base and a clear strategy for further expansion in Leeds. This role suits a Legal Director or Partner who enjoys leading complex planning work, building trusted client relationships, and shaping a team’s direction.
About the Role
- Lead and advise on a broad range of planning matters, including strategic planning, development consent, and planning agreements
- Support clients through the full lifecycle of development projects, working closely with colleagues across real estate, construction, corporate and disputes
- Provide clear, commercial advice to a varied client base, including developers, landowners, investors and public sector bodies
- Manage key client relationships and contribute to the growth of the Leeds planning offering
- Supervise, mentor and develop junior lawyers as the team expands
- Contribute to business development, profile-raising and thought leadership
What We’re Looking For
Essential- Qualified Solicitor in England and Wales
- Senior-level planning experience with strong technical capability
- Proven ability to manage matters independently and lead client relationships
- Candidates must have an established following
- Strong commercial judgement and a pragmatic, solutions-focused approach
- Collaborative working style and commitment to developing others
- Experience advising on large-scale development, regeneration and infrastructure projects
- Experience working closely with real estate and construction teams on complex schemes
- Track record of mentoring and team leadership at senior level
What’s On Offer
- Salary £95,000 - £120,000 plus a generous bonus structure
- A genuine opportunity to shape and grow a senior planning offering in Leeds
- Established team with an existing client base and strong pipeline
- Supportive, collaborative culture with high-quality work and clear progression
- Modern working environment with flexibility considered
About Our Client
Our client is a well-established UK law firm with a strong reputation for advising businesses, public sector bodies and individuals. The firm has achieved double-digit growth in recent years and continues to invest in its people and practice areas, with a clear focus on sustainable, long-term expansion.
Location & Working Arrangements
Newcastle upon Tyne City Centre. Full-time, permanent role. Flexible working considered.
How to Apply
Apply online or send your CV to lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com or call 0333 996 2882 for more information. Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is committed to ethical recruitment and the highest standards of confidentiality for all applicants.
Planning Law Legal Director or Partner in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Hawthorne-finch Talent Solutions
Contact Detail:
Hawthorne-finch Talent Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Law Legal Director or Partner in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the planning law field. Attend industry events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts. You never know who might have the inside scoop on your dream role!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Consider writing articles or giving talks on planning law topics. This not only positions you as a thought leader but also helps you build your personal brand. Plus, it’s a great way to attract attention from firms looking for someone with your skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios specific to planning law. Think about how you can demonstrate your client management skills and technical knowledge. We want you to walk in feeling confident and ready to impress!
✨Tip Number 4
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. Let’s get you that job!
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Law Legal Director or Partner in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Planning Law Legal Director or Partner role. Highlight your senior-level planning experience and client following to grab our attention!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role, focusing on your ability to lead complex planning work and build trusted client relationships. Keep it engaging and professional.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements in previous roles. Whether it's successful projects or mentoring junior lawyers, we want to see how you've made an impact in your field.
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 ensures you don’t miss any important details!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hawthorne-finch Talent Solutions
✨Know Your Planning Law Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the latest developments in planning law. Familiarise yourself with key cases and legislation that could impact your potential clients. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to staying current in the field.
✨Showcase Your Client Relationships
Be prepared to discuss your existing client following and how you've successfully managed those relationships. Think of specific examples where you've added value to your clients, as this will highlight your ability to contribute to the firm's growth.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since the role involves mentoring junior lawyers, come ready to share your experiences in team leadership. Discuss how you've developed others in your previous roles and how you plan to shape the team’s direction in this new position.
✨Prepare for Business Development Questions
Expect questions about your approach to business development and profile-raising. Have a few strategies in mind that you've successfully implemented in the past, and be ready to explain how you can help expand the firm's presence in Leeds.