Planning Law Legal Director or Partner

Planning Law Legal Director or Partner

Salary: £95,000 - £120,000 + generous bonus

Location: Manchester City Centre

Experience: Senior Level, with client following

A senior planning opportunity with a progressive UK law firm that has delivered consistent double-digit growth in recent years and is on track to do the same again this year.

The Opportunity

You will join an established, high-performing planning practice that is continuing to grow, with a strong existing client base and a clear strategy for further expansion in Leeds.

This role suits a Legal Director or Partner who enjoys leading complex planning work, building trusted client relationships, and shaping a team's direction.

About the Role

• Lead and advise on a broad range of planning matters, including strategic planning, development consent, and planning agreements
• Support clients through the full lifecycle of development projects, working closely with colleagues across real estate, construction, corporate and disputes
• Provide clear, commercial advice to a varied client base, including developers, landowners, investors and public sector bodies
• Manage key client relationships and contribute to the growth of the Leeds planning offering
• Supervise, mentor and develop junior lawyers as the team expands
• Contribute to business development, profile-raising and thought leadership

What We're Looking For

Essential

• Qualified Solicitor in England and Wales
• Senior-level planning experience with strong technical capability
• Proven ability to manage matters independently and lead client relationships
• Candidates must have an established following
• Strong commercial judgement and a pragmatic, solutions-focused approach
• Collaborative working style and commitment to developing others

Desirable

• Experience advising on large-scale development, regeneration and infrastructure projects
• Experience working closely with real estate and construction teams on complex schemes
• Track record of mentoring and team leadership at senior level

What's On Offer

• Salary £95,000 - £120,000 plus a generous bonus structure
• A genuine opportunity to shape and grow a senior planning offering in Leeds
• Established team with an existing client base and strong pipeline
• Supportive, collaborative culture with high-quality work and clear progression
• Modern working environment with flexibility considered

About Our Client

Our client is a well-established UK law firm with a strong reputation for advising businesses, public sector bodies and individuals. The firm has achieved double-digit growth in recent years and continues to invest in its people and practice areas, with a clear focus on sustainable, long-term expansion.

Location & Working Arrangements

Manchester City Centre. Full-time, permanent role. Flexible working considered.

How to Apply

Apply online or send your CV to or call for more information.

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