Associate / Senior Associate / Partner

Job Purpose

The accountabilities within this job description support our strategic framework, which includes:

• Being trusted advisors to our clients and colleagues

• Working to become recognised experts in our chosen specialisms

• Developing longstanding relationships with key clients and internal teams

We encourage all employees to be trusted advisors, to drive continuous improvement in processes and client service, and to embrace individual expertise through strong collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Manage client and matter files under supervision, ensuring full compliance with Lexcel and SRA requirements

• Provide expert legal advice to a range of clients (such as small and large volume housebuilders, commercial developers, and landowners), including negotiation and drafting of documentation relating to complex s106 agreements (including those relating to Biodiversity Net Gain requirements), and written advice on the implications of planning legislation, the NPPF/PPG, and case law

• Carry out legal proceedings effectively, efficiently, and in a timely manner with the aim of protecting client interests

• Meet agreed KPIs while demonstrating a commercial approach to financial management

• Assist in developing new business from existing clients and professional networks

• Commit to continued professional development in the planning specialism

Skills and Experience

• At least 6 years PQE in private practice, with solid knowledge of local government practice

• Positive and flexible approach to teamwork, with strong relationship-building skills under demanding timescales

• Ability to remain calm under pressure, particularly in contentious planning matters such as appeals and judicial review applications

• Strong desire to learn and widen expertise in this ever-evolving area of law

• Capability to act independently to a high level, while collaborating with senior partners and colleagues on complex matters

• Experience building relationships with clients, referrers, and professionals, with a proactive approach to marketing and business development

• Excellent communication skills to explain planning matters clearly to clients and colleagues

• Discretion and respect for client confidentiality

• Structured and methodical approach to ensure tasks are completed to a high standard

• Solid organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to handle multiple matters simultaneously

• Experience working in small teams within a wider practice, developing effective internal relationships

• Proven drafting skills, first-rate attention to detail, and excellent technical knowledge of planning law

• Strong problem-solving skills

• In-depth knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain requirements, especially in planning, and the provisions of the Environment Act 2021 and related regulations

• Experience advising developers and landowners on planning matters, with an appreciation for the bigger picture in real estate transactions

• Understanding of the interplay between planning law, agricultural law, and natural resources law