At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team providing innovative legal advice on property, planning, and regeneration.
- Company: Join Lambeth Council, a vibrant community-focused organisation with bold ambitions.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, hybrid working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equity, ambition, kindness, and accountability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while shaping the future of Lambeth.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or equivalent with strong organisational and leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 67000 - 83000 £ per year.
Principal Lawyer - Property, Planning & Regeneration
Salary: £78,266 rising to £88,090 per annum inclusive of market supplement up to £10,000 pa, plus £5,000 welcome payment*
Hybrid working
About Us
Located in the heart of South London, Lambeth Borough is a vibrant community of over 317,600 residents. We pride ourselves on diversity, with more than 130 languages spoken and strong community initiatives such as Lambeth 2030 Plan.
About the Team
A team of lawyers providing innovative and pragmatic legal advice to a range of internal clients, predominantly in planning and property matters, and other areas of legal practice where necessary.
About the Role
We are looking for a qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives (or equivalent relevant qualification). The successful candidate will manage a team, handle a busy and challenging caseload, and maintain quality assurance and performance standards in the service provided to the Council. Essential duties include:
- Leading, directing, developing and improving the service to operational teams in planning, highways and property.
- Working with third‑party providers on outsourced property and complex planning work to achieve positive outcomes for the Council.
- Collaborating with the Assistant Director of Legal Services on corporate activities and transformation plans.
- Providing high‑quality legal advice and ensuring value for money.
The ideal candidate will be highly organised, proactive, flexible, able to work under pressure, and able to manage competing deadlines. Good experience in planning or property work is required.
Contact Information
For any questions, please contact Gurpreet Singh, Assistant Director, Legal Service, via email Gsingh@lambeth.gov.uk.
Recruitment Timelines
Advert close date: 11:59 pm on Wednesday 17 June 2026.
Equal Opportunities
At Lambeth, we are committed to providing quality services and equal opportunities for all. We are a Stonewall diversity champion, a Living Wage Employer and guarantee interviews for all disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the role. We operate an anonymised application process; please remove personal details from your CV or personal statement when uploading.
Applicants will be required to undertake a Cifas check. Further information about Cifas can be found on our website.
* Market supplement is dependent on experience and subject to review. Welcome payments are only payable to non‑Lambeth staff; internal applicants will not qualify.
Principal Lawyer - Property, Planning & Regeneration employer: Lambeth Council
Lambeth Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and development of its staff, offering a generous benefits package including flexible hybrid working, extensive annual leave, and opportunities for professional growth through learning and development initiatives. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, Lambeth fosters a supportive work culture where employees can thrive while contributing to the vibrant community of Lambeth, known for its rich cultural heritage and dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Lawyer - Property, Planning & Regeneration
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who might have insights into Lambeth Council. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Lambeth’s recent projects and initiatives. Show us you’re genuinely interested in our community and how your skills can contribute to our ambitious plans!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, but keep it natural. We want to see your personality shine through, so don’t be afraid to let your enthusiasm for the role show!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process. Make sure your CV and supporting statement highlight how you meet the criteria we’re looking for. Tailor your application to reflect our One Lambeth Values!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Lawyer - Property, Planning & Regeneration
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Lawyer role. Highlight your relevant experience in property, planning, and regeneration, and don’t forget to showcase any leadership roles you've had. We want to see how you fit into our vision!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement:Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Clearly demonstrate how you meet the criteria marked with an 'A' in the person specification. Use specific examples from your past work to show us your skills and commitment.
Keep It Professional but Personal:While we love professionalism, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Show us your enthusiasm for the role and the values of Lambeth Council. We’re looking for someone who’s not just qualified, but also a great fit for our team culture!
Follow the Application Process:Make sure to apply through our website and follow the anonymised application process. Remember to remove personal details from your CV and statement. We want to focus on your skills and experience without bias!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lambeth Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in property, planning, and regeneration law. Brush up on recent cases and legislation that could impact Lambeth Council. This shows your commitment and expertise, which is crucial for a Principal Lawyer role.
✨Align with One Lambeth Values
Familiarise yourself with the One Lambeth Values and Behaviours: Equity, Ambition, Kindness, and Accountability. Be ready to discuss how you embody these values in your work and how they can guide your approach to legal challenges at the council.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As this role involves managing a team, prepare examples of how you’ve successfully led teams in the past. Highlight your proactive problem-solving skills and how you’ve maintained quality assurance in previous roles.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the council’s future plans and how the legal department fits into those ambitions. This not only shows your interest but also your strategic thinking regarding the role and its impact on the community.
