At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide legal support on land acquisitions, development finance, and commercial contracts.
- Company: Fast-growing London-based real estate developer with exciting projects.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborate with investment and development teams to shape the future of real estate.
- Why this job: Join a high-impact role in a fast-paced, deal-driven environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with 4-8 years’ experience in real estate law.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
Location: London
Job Type: Full-Time | Permanent
Our client is a fast-growing London-based real estate developer and investor with an active pipeline across residential, mixed-use, and build-to-rent schemes. The business has expanded significantly in recent years and continues to scale its development and investment platform.
The Role
They are seeking a commercially focused In-House Counsel to support across land acquisitions, development finance, and commercial contracts. This is a broad, high-impact role working closely with investment, development, and finance teams, providing pragmatic legal advice in a fast-paced, deal-driven environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Land & Property
- Lead legal due diligence and transaction management on land acquisitions, option agreements, and conditional contracts
- Advise on title matters, planning obligations (Section 106), overage, and restrictive covenants
- Review and negotiate heads of terms, purchase agreements, and associated documentation
- Manage external solicitors on complex transactions, ensuring quality and cost efficiency
- Support joint venture structuring and documentation
- Banking & Finance
- Act as the lead legal contact on development finance transactions, including senior, mezzanine, and equity arrangements
- Review and negotiate facility agreements and security documentation
- Manage conditions precedent processes and drawdowns alongside internal teams
- Liaise with lenders and their legal advisers
- Commercial Contracts
- Draft and negotiate a wide range of agreements, including construction contracts (JCT), professional appointments, and NDAs
- Advise on contractor and consultant terms, warranties, and novation agreements
- Support procurement and contract administration queries
- Maintain and develop standard templates and precedents
- General In-House
- Provide clear, commercially focused legal advice to senior stakeholders
- Identify and manage legal risk across the development and investment pipeline
- Manage external legal panel and oversee legal spend
- Monitor regulatory developments and advise the business accordingly
Candidate Profile
- Qualified solicitor with 4–8 years’ PQE
- Strong grounding in real estate law, particularly land acquisition
- Experience with development finance and/or banking transactions
- Background in a reputable private practice environment
- Strong drafting skills and attention to detail
- Commercial and pragmatic approach to legal advice
Desirable
- Previous in-house experience
- Exposure to both borrower and lender-side finance transactions
- Experience across commercial contracts within a development or investment business
In-House Legal Counsel (Land, Banking & Commercial) in Slough employer: Madison Hive
As a fast-growing real estate developer and investor based in London, our client offers an exceptional work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. Employees benefit from a dynamic culture that prioritises professional growth, with ample opportunities to engage in high-impact projects across land acquisitions and development finance. The company's commitment to employee development, coupled with its strategic location in one of the world's most vibrant cities, makes it an attractive employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land In-House Legal Counsel (Land, Banking & Commercial) in Slough
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Madison Hive, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace In-House Legal Counsel (Land, Banking & Commercial) in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Madison Hive, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Madison Hive and the specific role of In-House Legal Counsel (Land, Banking & Commercial). Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Madison Hive’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Madison Hive
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Madison Hive.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Madison Hive.
