At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legal negotiations and manage construction documentation for exciting development projects.
- Company: Join Watkin Jones Group, a leading developer with a rich history and future-focused vision.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, hybrid working, and exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Be part of a company committed to sustainable development and vibrant communities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-profile developments in a dynamic and ambitious organisation.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with 6+ years in construction law and strong stakeholder engagement skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced Legal Director to take on a business-critical role, supporting the delivery of our Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) and Build to Rent (BTR) developments. This role offers a fixed term contract of 18 months based from our Chester office (minimum of 2 days per week) with the flexibility to work from home too.
The role: You will be accountable for the preparation, negotiation, and management of construction documentation across the full lifecycle of projects, working closely with internal commercial, technical, and operational teams, as well as external lawyers, investors, purchasers, and funders. The role requires a strong construction law background and the ability to provide pragmatic, commercially focused legal advice on complex development and funding arrangements. You will lead negotiations with contractors and funders, draft and agree building contracts, professional appointments, collateral warranties, and third-party rights, and ensure all documentation aligns with development and funding agreements. Acting as a trusted advisor across the business, you will also monitor legal and regulatory changes and work closely with the General Counsel to ensure schemes are appropriately managed and resourced.
About you: The successful candidate will be a qualified solicitor with at least 6 years’ post-qualification experience, strong construction and development expertise, and the confidence to operate at senior stakeholder level. This is an opportunity to play a key role in delivering high-profile developments within a growing and ambitious organisation.
Why Choose Watkin Jones Group? Watkin Jones Group is the UK’s leading developer, builder, and manager of residential-for-rent homes, with a rich history dating back to 1791. With 54,000+ homes developed and in-build across over 254 schemes, we have a proven track record of success. Our operating arm, Fresh, manages over 18,500 units across 58 schemes, representing approximately £1.7bn of assets under management. Joining us means becoming part of a company that’s not only deeply rooted in history but also firmly focused on the future. We’re committed to creating high-quality rental homes, fostering vibrant communities, and driving sustainable development.
At Watkin Jones, we believe in investing in our people. Here’s what we can offer you:
- Work-Life Balance: 25 days of annual leave (increasing with tenure), hybrid working arrangements, and discounted gym memberships.
- Wellbeing: Access to ‘Your Wellbeing’ programme & OpenUp – a confidential wellbeing platform.
- Rewards: Discretionary annual bonus, health cash plan, life insurance, and more.
- Benefits: Exclusive shopping discounts, and a contributory pension scheme.
This is an opportunity to take on a high-impact role within a forward-thinking company. In return, we offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the chance to work on major projects that shape the built environment.
Legal Director in Eccleston employer: Watkin Jones Group
Contact Detail:
Watkin Jones Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Director in Eccleston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal and construction sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their recent developments in PBSA and BTR. This will not only show your interest but also help you tailor your answers to demonstrate how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Legal Director, you’ll need to showcase your ability to negotiate effectively. Role-play with a friend or mentor to refine your approach and build confidence in discussing complex legal matters.
✨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 are proactive and engaged with our brand. So, get that application in and let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Director in Eccleston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Legal Director role. Highlight your construction law experience and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your negotiation skills and how you've successfully managed legal documentation in the past.
Showcase Your Teamwork Skills: Since you'll be working closely with various teams, it's important to demonstrate your ability to collaborate. Mention instances where you've worked with commercial, technical, or operational teams to achieve successful outcomes.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Watkin Jones Group
✨Know Your Construction Law Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your construction law knowledge before the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific cases or legislation that are relevant to the role, as this will show your expertise and confidence in handling complex legal matters.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Since you'll be leading negotiations with contractors and funders, think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully negotiated contracts. Be ready to explain your approach and how you achieved favourable outcomes, as this will demonstrate your capability in a key aspect of the role.
✨Understand the Company’s Vision
Familiarise yourself with Watkin Jones Group's history and their commitment to sustainable development. Being able to align your personal values with the company's mission will not only impress the interviewers but also show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their goals.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street, so prepare insightful questions about the role, team dynamics, and future projects. This shows that you're engaged and serious about the position, plus it gives you a chance to assess if the company is the right fit for you.