Planning Legal Director

BCL Legal; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent UK law firm is seeking a Legal Director specializing in planning law to lead their northern team in Manchester. This strategic role offers a unique opportunity to shape the planning law practice, engage with major clients, and contribute to high-profile infrastructure projects. Ideal for a senior lawyer with over 8 years of PQE, this position promises a clear path to Partnership and a supportive hybrid working environment. Join a collaborative team that values both professional excellence and personal growth, and make a significant impact in the planning sector.

Benefits

Flexible working hours

Professional development opportunities

Access to internal training

Mentorship programs

Qualifications

• 8+ years' PQE in planning law from a recognized firm or in-house.
• Strong experience in town and country planning and infrastructure.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on planning and infrastructure matters.
• Manage client relationships and lead key projects.

Skills

Planning Law

Business Development

Client Relationship Management

Team Leadership

Infrastructure Law

Education

Qualified Solicitor (8+ years PQE)

Job description

Legal Director - Planning Law | Manchester (Hybrid Working Available)

Are you a senior planning lawyer ready to step into a leadership role within a nationally respected team? A prominent UK law firm is offering a rare opportunity for a Legal Director to join its northern region, based in Manchester.

This is a hands-on, strategic role offering a genuine route to Partnership, with a clear remit to develop and grow the planning law offering across the North West.

About the Role:

You will be at the forefront of planning and infrastructure work, advising a diverse client base that includes major developers and national housebuilders. You'll work closely with the National Head of Planning and senior Partners across the firm to expand the northern planning practice and will play an active role in business development, networking, and client engagement in the region.

This opportunity spans strategic planning, enforcement, DCOs, highways, compulsory purchase, litigation, and infrastructure, making it ideal for a rounded planning specialist looking for leadership and growth.

You'll also be supported in developing your technical knowledge with access to internal training and encouraged to lead external client seminars and training programmes.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Provide expert legal advice on town and country planning matters, highways law, compulsory purchase, and compensation.
2. Work on DCO and infrastructure projects (training can be provided if needed).
3. Manage and develop client relationships and lead on key projects.
4. Mentor junior lawyers and support broader team development.
5. Proactively engage in business development and profile-raising in the North West.

About You:

We're seeking a confident, collaborative, and commercially aware senior lawyer with:

1. 8+ years' PQE in planning law gained at a recognised firm or in-house environment.
2. Strong experience in town and country planning, CPO, and ideally DCO or infrastructure.
3. A keen interest in growing and developing a team, alongside fee-earning.
4. A proactive and personable approach, with proven business development skills and a genuine enthusiasm for the planning sector.

You'll be joining a team that values professionalism and performance but also personality and positivity.

Why Apply?

1. Join a top-tier national planning practice with high-profile, cutting-edge work.
2. Be part of an established, multi-office team of planning specialists across the UK.
3. Work alongside industry leaders and gain exposure to some of the UK's most significant planning and infrastructure projects.
4. Benefit from a clear progression path to Partnership, within a firm that rewards leadership and entrepreneurial thinking.
5. Enjoy a flexible and hybrid working culture, with supportive colleagues and ongoing professional development.

Next Steps:

If you're a senior planning lawyer looking for your next leadership role in a forward-thinking, client-focused firm, this could be your ideal next move.

Apply now for a confidential conversation or get in touch to learn more. We're happy to guide you through the process and share further insights.