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- 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 ambitious future.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, hybrid working, and exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Be part of a company focused on sustainable development and community building.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-profile developments in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with 6+ years' experience in construction law.
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 Chester employer: Watkin Jones
Contact Detail:
Watkin Jones Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Director in Chester
✨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!
✨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 help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in what they do.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Legal Director, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate effectively. Role-play with a friend or mentor to refine your approach and boost your confidence before the big day.
✨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 your application in and let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Director in Chester
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 at Watkin Jones Group. Share specific examples of your achievements in construction law and how they relate to our Purpose Built Student Accommodation and Build to Rent developments.
Showcase Your Negotiation Skills: Since you'll be leading negotiations, it's crucial to showcase your negotiation skills in your application. Mention any successful deals or contracts you've managed and how you navigated complex situations. We love seeing that confidence!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply 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 you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Watkin Jones
✨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 Business Context
Familiarise yourself with Watkin Jones Group's projects and their impact on the community. Being able to discuss how your legal advice can support their Purpose Built Student Accommodation and Build to Rent developments will show that you're not just a lawyer, but a strategic partner who understands the business.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street, so prepare insightful questions about the company's future projects, challenges they face, or how they manage legal compliance. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.