At a Glance
- Tasks: Advise on public and private planning matters, handling complex applications and agreements.
- Company: Join a top-tier law firm with a people-first culture in Birmingham City Centre.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, generous leave, and a strong pension scheme.
- Other info: Structured training and career development opportunities await you.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in planning law while maintaining work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Senior Associate level Planning Solicitor with 4-8 years of experience.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 75000 £ per year.
A rare opportunity for a Senior Planning Solicitor to join a highly regarded planning team in Birmingham City Centre. This Planning Solicitor role is ideal for an experienced planning lawyer seeking high‑quality work within a genuinely people‑first, modern law firm, with an entire team Legal 500 named.
This Planning Solicitor role offers exposure to a broad mix of public and private sector planning work, working closely within a small planning team. The role combines excellent quality instructions with realistic chargeable hours, making it an attractive long‑term career move for planning lawyers seeking balance without sacrificing profile or complexity of work.
The Role:
- Advising on a wide range of public and private planning matters
- Acting on complex planning applications, appeals and enforcement issues
- Supporting developers, landowners, local authorities and corporate clients
- Advising on planning aspects of commercial and residential development projects
- Drafting and negotiating planning agreements including section 106 agreements
- Working closely with senior lawyers recognised in the Legal 500
- Managing matters with a high degree of autonomy
- Contributing to client relationships and wider business development activity
The Candidate:
- Experienced Planning Solicitor at Senior Associate level (4 - 8 PQE)
- Strong background in planning law across public and private sector
- Confident handling complex planning issues with minimal supervision
- Commercially aware with a practical, solutions‑focused approach
- Strong drafting, advisory and client‑handling skills
- Comfortable working directly with developers and public bodies
- Team‑oriented with a collaborative working style
- Ambitious and seeking long‑term progression within a high‑quality planning practice
The Benefits and How to Apply:
- Low chargeable hours target with a genuine emphasis on work‑life balance
- Hybrid and flexible working arrangements
- 24 days annual leave + bank holidays, additional Christmas closure and option to buy more
- 8% pension scheme (4% employer contribution)
- Life assurance at 4x salary
- Health cash plan, virtual GP access and Employee Assistance Programme
- Structured training, mentoring and long‑term career development pathways
Apply in the strictest of confidence online or via telephone.
Planning Solicitor employer: William James Recruitment
Join a highly regarded planning team in Birmingham City Centre, where you will find a genuinely people-first culture that prioritises work-life balance without compromising on the quality of your legal work. With low chargeable hours targets, flexible working arrangements, and structured career development pathways, this firm offers an exceptional environment for ambitious Planning Solicitors looking to thrive in their careers while enjoying a supportive and collaborative atmosphere.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Solicitor
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the legal field! Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to former colleagues or classmates. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Planning Solicitor role.
✨Show Off Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience in both public and private sector planning law. Share specific examples of complex cases you've handled to demonstrate your skills and confidence in the field.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every firm is different, so take the time to research the company culture and values before your interview. This way, you can align your answers with what they’re looking for, showing them you’re not just another candidate but the right fit for their team.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out our website for the latest job openings! Applying directly through us not only streamlines the process but also gives you access to exclusive opportunities that might not be advertised elsewhere.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Solicitor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Planning Solicitor role. Highlight your experience in planning law and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Experience:When detailing your past roles, focus on your experience with complex planning issues and your ability to work autonomously. We love seeing examples of how you've successfully handled planning applications or negotiations in the past.
Be Personable:Remember, we’re a people-first firm! Let your personality shine through in your application. Share why you’re passionate about planning law and how you can contribute to our collaborative team culture.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures it gets into the right hands quickly. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at William James Recruitment
✨Know Your Planning Law
Brush up on the latest developments in planning law, especially those relevant to both public and private sectors. Being able to discuss recent cases or changes in legislation will show your expertise and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Showcase Your Client Handling Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed client relationships in the past. Highlight your ability to work with developers and public bodies, as this is crucial for the role. Use specific scenarios to demonstrate your solutions-focused approach.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since the role involves working closely within a small team, be ready to discuss how you collaborate with others. Share experiences where teamwork led to successful outcomes, emphasising your team-oriented mindset.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the firm’s approach to planning matters and their expectations for the role. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the firm’s culture aligns with your career goals.
