Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead on exciting planning cases and build strong client relationships.
- Company: Join Lester Aldridge LLP, a respected firm with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and a clear path to partnership.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in planning law while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in planning obligations and excellent interpersonal skills.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for mentorship and professional development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you ready to shape the future of planning and environmental law?
Lester Aldridge LLP is seeking an experienced Senior Planning Solicitor to join our Southampton office.
You’ll advise housebuilders and other prestigious clients on both contentious and non-contentious planning and environment matters — working on meaningful cases from day one, backed by a team that’s invested in your success.
Why Join Us?
Work That Matters, Backed by the Best
Step into high-impact cases with the support of experienced peers and inspiring leaders.
Freedom to Thrive
Hybrid working and sensible targets give you space to grow, sharpen your skills, and shape your career.
B ag Enough for Opportunity, Small Enough for Impact
With 400 people across three offices, you’ll have the resources of a leading firm — and the visibility to make your mark.
A Firm with Roots and Vision
Join a stable, respected practice evolving through bold strategy. Our Path to Partnership is proven — with real stories of progression from trainee to partner.
What You’ll Do
- Take a strong lead on bring new business to the team
- Manage a varied caseload and advise clients in person and in writing
- Draft and negotiate planning and environmental documentation
- Build strong client relationships and contribute to business development
- Mentor junior colleagues and act as a role model
- Stay current with legal developments and promote our core values: Clients, People, Teamwork, Progressiveness
What You’ll Bring
- In-depth knowledge and experience of Planning obligations (negotiated deliverables to support infrastructure on the land / development) for dwellings, health, care and retirement living
- Excellent technical, business, and interpersonal skills
- Proactive mindset with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively under pressure
- High client service standards and time management skills
- Marketing and networking flair, with a passion for thought leadership
Ready to make your mark in Planning and Environment law?
Let’s talk. Apply now or reach out for a confidential conversation.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Planning Associate / Senior Associate employer: Lester Aldridge
Contact Detail:
Lester Aldridge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Associate / Senior Associate
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, webinars, and local meet-ups to connect with professionals in planning and environmental law. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Create a LinkedIn profile that highlights your skills and experiences in planning law. Share articles, comment on relevant posts, and engage with others to position yourself as a thought leader in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the firm and its recent cases. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their values and goals. We want to see your passion for planning and environmental law shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to reach out directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Associate / Senior Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Planning Associate role. Highlight your experience in planning obligations and any relevant cases you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with what we do!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate your technical, business, and interpersonal skills through specific examples. We love seeing how you’ve tackled challenges and built client relationships in your previous roles.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who fits our culture of teamwork and progressiveness, so don’t be afraid to show us who you are and what drives you!
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lester Aldridge
✨Know Your Planning Law
Brush up on the latest developments in planning and environmental law. Be ready to discuss specific cases or legislation that are relevant to the role, as this will show your passion and expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Client Relationship Skills
Prepare examples of how you've built strong client relationships in the past. Think about times when you’ve successfully managed client expectations or resolved conflicts, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Business Development Flair
Think of innovative ideas you could bring to the firm for attracting new clients. Whether it’s networking strategies or marketing initiatives, showing that you have a proactive mindset will impress the interviewers.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Mentorship
Since mentoring junior colleagues is part of the job, come prepared with examples of how you’ve supported others in their professional development. This will highlight your leadership qualities and commitment to teamwork.
