At a Glance
- Tasks: Advise on complex planning projects and mentor junior lawyers in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Leading Real Estate Planning team shaping the UK's built environment.
- Benefits: Top-tier work quality, balanced work-life, and opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-profile development projects across the UK.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with 5+ years' experience in planning law and strong knowledge of relevant acts.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with a focus on innovative infrastructure and environmental projects.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
I’m working with a Real Estate Planning team that is genuinely shaping the future of the built environment in the UK. This is a group widely recognised for advising on some of the most complex and high‑profile development projects in the country, from major residential schemes and regeneration projects to nationally significant infrastructure, transport, aviation, energy and environmental work. The variety and scale of what they do means no two days are the same, and the impact of the advice given here is very real.
The team operates on a national basis and offers clients a full spectrum of planning expertise. Their work spans residential and commercial development, major infrastructure and environmental and waste projects, alongside a strong contentious practice including judicial review and Lands Chamber proceedings. The quality of work is genuinely top tier and rivals what you would expect to see in the City, while offering a more balanced and sustainable working environment.
Due to continued growth and increasing demand from major infrastructure providers, the firm is now looking to add an experienced Senior Planning Lawyer to the team. This is a role for someone who enjoys working on complex, technically demanding matters and wants to be part of a collaborative, ambitious national practice.
You’ll be advising on large‑scale development consent orders, providing strategic planning advice, leading on complex planning and highway agreements, reviewing environmental statements and EIAs, supporting project management on major schemes and, where relevant, assisting with compulsory acquisition work. You’ll also play a key role in mentoring junior lawyers and contributing to the ongoing development of the team.
The ideal person will be a qualified solicitor with at least five years’ post‑qualification experience gained within a planning team, with strong knowledge of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and some familiarity with the Planning Act 2008. You’ll be comfortable leading on complex planning agreements, handling highway agreements and managing inquiries, examinations and judicial reviews. Experience supervising junior team members and a solid understanding of Environmental Impact Assessments will be important, and while compulsory acquisition experience isn’t essential, it would be a welcome addition.
What really sets this opportunity apart is the chance to work alongside truly outstanding planning lawyers on premium‑level work, outside of the traditional City environment. If you’re passionate about planning and infrastructure, enjoy seeing your work make a tangible difference, and are looking for a role that combines quality, variety and progression, I’d be very happy to have a confidential conversation.
Reach out to Neil at QED Legal via the details provided.
Planning Senior Associate/Legal Director - 5+ PQE employer: QED Legal LLP
Contact Detail:
QED Legal LLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Senior Associate/Legal Director - 5+ PQE
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with professionals in the planning and legal sectors. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or during interviews, make sure to highlight your experience with complex planning agreements and environmental assessments. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenging projects to demonstrate your value.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Brush up on your knowledge of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and the Planning Act 2008. Be ready to discuss how these laws impact your work and how you can apply them to real-world scenarios in the role you're aiming for.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got some fantastic opportunities that might just be the perfect fit for you. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm and commitment to joining our team. Let’s shape the future of the built environment together!
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Senior Associate/Legal Director - 5+ PQE
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Planning: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for planning and infrastructure shine through. We want to see how your experience aligns with the exciting projects we handle, so don’t hold back on sharing your passion!
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Highlight your relevant experience in complex planning agreements and any work with environmental assessments. We love seeing how you can contribute to our team!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured documents that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and experience. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at QED Legal LLP
✨Know Your Planning Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and the Planning Act 2008. Being able to discuss these acts confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the basics, but that you understand the intricacies of planning law.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work where you've led on complex planning agreements or handled judicial reviews. This is your chance to demonstrate your expertise and how it aligns with the role's requirements.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since this role involves mentoring junior lawyers and working within a team, be ready to discuss your experience in collaborative environments. Share instances where you’ve successfully worked with others to achieve project goals.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the firm’s current projects or future plans in the real estate sector. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the firm’s values align with yours.
