Job Description

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 lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com or call 0333 996 2882 for more information.

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is committed to ethical recruitment and the highest standards of confidentiality for all applicants.