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- Tasks: Provide expert legal advice on planning and infrastructure projects.
- Company: Top 30 international law firm with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, health support, and generous leave.
- Why this job: Join a prestigious firm focused on career growth and work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Experience in planning law and strong advisory skills.
- Other info: Hybrid role with excellent progression opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 110000 ÂŁ per year.
Legal Director – Planning
The role is based in Birmingham, with a hybrid working arrangement of 2 days in office and 3 days remote.
Salary: Up to ÂŁ107,000 + bonus (triggered from 1,300 chargeable hours)
Target chargeable hours: 1,500 per year
Practice: Real Estate – Planning, Regeneration, and Infrastructure
Why this role?
- Work directly with a Tier 1-ranked Partner (Legal 500) who has over 20 years of experience delivering top‑tier strategic advice.
- Advise major UK and international developers, funds, investors, and public bodies on transformative, high‑value projects.
- Handle the full lifecycle of major schemes – from site acquisition and promotion through to consent, delivery and land compensation.
- Gain exposure to transport, energy, logistics, town‑centre regeneration, retail, health and education projects.
- Join a tight‑knit, technically elite team trusted to deliver on the UK’s most ambitious infrastructure developments.
- Enjoy real autonomy, hybrid flexibility and reward structures that recognise high performance.
What you’ll do
- Lead and advise on DCOs, CPOs, Section 106 agreements and complex planning instructions.
- Draft and negotiate planning‑related legal agreements for developers, lenders, investors and public sector clients.
- Coordinate multidisciplinary advisory teams on large‑scale land assembly and infrastructure projects.
- Advise on compulsory purchase compensation, judicial reviews and planning appeals.
- Support real estate colleagues with planning due diligence on acquisitions, disposals and financings.
- Mentor and develop junior lawyers, shaping the next generation of planning talent.
- Drive business development and strengthen long‑term client relationships.
What you’ll bring
- Qualified Solicitor (6+ PQE) with significant experience in planning, development and/or infrastructure law.
- Expertise in Section 106, CPO and DCO work.
- Confidence handling complex statutory processes and high‑value, multi‑stakeholder projects.
- Strategic mindset and strong client relationship skills.
- Clear, commercially focused communication.
- Natural leader who inspires, mentors and delivers excellence.
Rewards
- Salary: Up to ÂŁ107,000 + bonus (triggered from 1,300 hours)
- Hybrid working: 2 days in the Birmingham office
- World‑class benefits: private medical, life assurance, income protection, pension and more
- Career trajectory: direct line into partnership potential
- Prestige projects: work that defines skylines, infrastructure and communities
Ellie Marshall – Oculus
Seniority level
- Director
Employment type
- Full‑time
Job function
- Legal
- Industries: Legal Services and Law Practice
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Planning Solicitor employer: Oculus Legal Group
Contact Detail:
Oculus Legal Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Solicitor
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who work in planning or infrastructure. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of current planning laws and regulations. We want you to impress with your expertise, so practice answering common interview questions related to planning and infrastructure.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your soft skills! Being a Planning Solicitor isn’t just about legal knowledge; it’s also about communication and teamwork. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated on projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that role! We’re all about making the application process smooth and straightforward, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to join a top international law firm.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Solicitor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Planning Solicitor role. Highlight relevant experience in planning law, projects, and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're excited about this opportunity and how you can contribute to our Planning and Infrastructure team. Keep it professional but let your personality show through.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of successful projects or cases you've worked on. We love to see how you've made an impact in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our fantastic team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oculus Legal Group
✨Know Your Planning Law
Brush up on the latest developments in planning law and infrastructure matters. Be prepared to discuss recent cases or legislation that could impact your role, as this shows your commitment and expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role is aimed at someone looking to step into senior leadership, be ready to share examples of how you've led projects or teams in the past. Highlight your ability to mentor others and drive results within a team setting.
✨Understand the Firm's Culture
Research the firm’s values and culture before the interview. Be ready to explain how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding work-life balance and career development, which are key aspects of their environment.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Have a list of insightful questions ready to ask during the interview. This could include inquiries about the firm's approach to planning challenges or how they support professional growth. It shows your genuine interest in the role and the firm.
