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 RoleLead 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 leadershipWhat We’re Looking For EssentialQualified 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 othersDesirableExperience 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 levelWhat’s On OfferSalary £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 consideredAbout 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@ 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2026-04-30