At a Glance
- Tasks: Advise on environmental compliance and navigate complex legal frameworks.
- Company: Join Pennon Group, a leader in water and renewables, committed to sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, competitive salary, and excellent health benefits.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values inclusion and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental protection through legal advocacy.
- Qualifications: UK-qualified solicitor with 4+ years in environmental or regulatory law.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
At Pennon Group, we’re proud to be leading the way in the water and renewables industries. Alongside our subsidiaries - South West Water, Bristol Water, Bournemouth Water, SES Water, Pennon Water Services and Pennon Power - we’re committed to delivering a sustainable future for our region. We currently have an opportunity for an In-House Environmental Lawyer to join our Legal team in either Exeter or Bristol. You will receive a competitive salary of £60,000- £70,000pa plus an excellent benefits package.
About the role
Reporting into the Legal Manager – Environmental, as an In House Environmental Lawyer you will support the business with its ambitious environmental strategies and compliance with the regulatory framework applicable to water companies. You’ll play a key part in guiding Pennon’s environmental strategy and compliance across our operations. Working closely with senior stakeholders, you’ll advise on complex regulatory and environmental issues, support enforcement and litigation, and help the business navigate a dynamic legal framework. You will be providing legal advice on regulatory issues impacting the business, supporting environmental litigation, including enforcement, prosecutions, regulatory appeals, judicial review and civil claims. This is a great opportunity and key in advocating for environmental protection through legal means.
What you will be doing
- Supporting the business by advising on environmental compliance and regulation
- Advising in connection with environmental permitting, licensing and consents
- Advising on regulatory compliance and enforcement, including environmental prosecutions
- Advising on Enforcement Undertakings
- Advising on access to environmental information and duties under the Environmental Information Regulations 2004
- Delivering training and mentoring colleagues on environmental issues relevant to the business.
What we are looking for
- You will be a UK-qualified solicitor with 4+ experience PQE in environmental or regulatory law.
- Excellent communicator able to translate complex legal issues clearly.
- Ability to communicate legal issues and risks in terms that non-legal colleagues can understand.
- Analytical acumen – strong research and analytical skills to interpret complex legal documents and regulations.
- Problem solving – Ability to creatively solve complex legal and environmental issues, balancing legal principles with practical environmental concerns.
- Experience working with environmental regulators or within regulated industries would be advantageous.
What’s in it for you
We know that the support and commitment of our staff is key to our success so you will receive the opportunity for ongoing development and training for a long-term career with us. We’re one of the largest companies in the South West and are proud to have been awarded Investors in People recognition.
In return, we offer an excellent range of benefits including:
- Generous holiday allowance plus bank holidays
- A discretionary Bonus
- Competitive Contributory Pension
- Share-save Scheme
- Various health benefits
- Wellbeing support programmes
- A range of Group Discounts
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Financial support services
- And plenty more!
Closing Date: 20th November 2025. Please note that the successful candidate will be subject to a mandatory DBS check as part of the onboarding process.
Be yourself, we like it that way. Together, we will build a culture of belonging, where inclusion is instinctive. Diversity is our strength and a reflection of our communities. We care, we value everyone, we celebrate uniqueness. Our core values which are essential to our success are:
- Be Rock Solid - Build trust and be trusted. Be the one we all look to and can depend on.
- Be You - We want you to bring your best every day. Be yourself and make your mark in your individual way.
- Be the Future - Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.
In-House Environmental Lawyer in Bristol employer: South West Water
At Pennon Group, we pride ourselves on being a leading employer in the water and renewables sectors, offering a dynamic work environment in Exeter or Bristol. Our commitment to sustainability is matched by our dedication to employee growth, providing ongoing training and development opportunities, alongside a competitive salary and an excellent benefits package that includes generous holiday allowances and wellbeing support. Join us in advocating for environmental protection while enjoying a culture of inclusion and diversity, where your unique contributions are valued.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land In-House Environmental Lawyer in Bristol
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the environmental law field. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Ace the Interview
Prepare for your interview by researching Pennon Group and its environmental strategies. Think about how your experience aligns with their goals and be ready to discuss specific examples. We want to see your passion for environmental law shine through!
✨Showcase Your Skills
Bring your A-game by highlighting your analytical and problem-solving skills during discussions. Use real-life scenarios where you’ve tackled complex legal issues. We love seeing candidates who can think on their feet and offer practical solutions!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who want to make a difference in the water and renewables industries.
We think you need these skills to ace In-House Environmental Lawyer in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the In-House Environmental Lawyer role. Highlight your experience in environmental law and how it aligns with Pennon Group's commitment to sustainability. We want to see how you can contribute to our mission!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a lawyer, being able to communicate complex legal issues clearly is key. Use your application to demonstrate your ability to break down intricate legal concepts into understandable terms. This will show us that you can effectively advise non-legal colleagues.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to mention any experience you have with environmental regulators or within regulated industries. This is super relevant to the role and will help us see how you can hit the ground running in supporting our environmental strategies.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at South West Water
✨Know Your Environmental Law
Brush up on the latest developments in environmental and regulatory law. Be prepared to discuss specific cases or regulations that are relevant to Pennon Group's operations, as this will show your expertise and genuine interest in the role.
✨Understand Pennon's Mission
Familiarise yourself with Pennon Group's commitment to sustainability and their subsidiaries. Being able to articulate how your legal skills can support their environmental strategies will demonstrate that you’re aligned with their values and goals.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Think about potential scenarios you might face in the role, such as advising on compliance issues or handling enforcement actions. Prepare clear, structured responses that showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to navigate complex legal frameworks.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As an In-House Environmental Lawyer, you'll need to communicate complex legal concepts to non-legal colleagues. Practice explaining intricate legal issues in simple terms, as this will highlight your ability to bridge the gap between legal jargon and practical understanding.
