Planning Senior Associate

JMC Legal Recruitment; Manchester; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent legal firm in Manchester is looking for a Planning Senior Associate to join their Development, Planning and Infrastructure team. This role offers a chance for ambitious lawyers (4+ years PQE) to work on diverse, high-quality cases across various sectors. Candidates will benefit from strong support for career development, including potential fast-tracking into partnership. The firm emphasizes an innovative approach and excellent working conditions, catering to a diverse clientele from major businesses to high-net-worth individuals.

Benefits

Excellent benefits package

Potential for fast track into partnership

Qualifications

• Planning lawyer with 4 years PQE or more, capable of handling a full caseload.
• Demonstrated experience in delivering high-quality legal services.
• Strong communication skills for client advisory roles.

Responsibilities

• Advise clients in various sectors including housebuilding and retail.
• Support the Development, Planning and Infrastructure team.
• Engage in business development initiatives to strengthen the firm's brand.

Skills

Excellent technical ability

Commercial awareness

Business development

Education

Qualified Planning Lawyer (4+ years PQE)

Job description

Planning Senior Associate

This is a stand-out opportunity for a Planning Lawyer (4 years PQE +) to join a Top 200 Firm in Manchester. This firm is well respected in the local market and is known for its innovative, forward‑thinking approach in the Legal Sector.

You will find this firm offers all the tools needed to develop your career and market your practice further. This would suit a candidate looking for a fast track into Partnership!

If you are looking to move to a progressive firm that is growing and investing in its staff, this is a standout opportunity to be part of a growing project at an esteemed firm.

The Firm

This Top 200 firm houses leading individuals in their respective fields where they are highly ranked in both Chambers and Legal 500. The firm has served the individuals and businesses of Manchester for over 100 years, firmly rooted in the city and locally supporting the growing economy.

The firm services a range of clients from some of the largest businesses to HNW and UHNW individuals domestic and overseas. Further, the firm is involved with some of the most exciting start‑ups, integral to the vibrant, forward‑thinking culture promoted within the firm. Some clients include sports, celebrities, healthcare and charities, supported by a large network of community actions.

The Role

This firm is seeking a Planning Lawyer (4 years PQE +) to join their busy team in the City of Manchester.

They are looking for an ambitious and enthusiastic associate to support their Development, Planning and Infrastructure team. You will be instrumental in strengthening the firm’s national brand and will advise clients across all industry sectors, including housebuilding, retail, investment, energy and projects.

The team offers a varied top‑drawer spread of work and a platform to take your career to the next level. There is ample opportunity to take part in business development initiatives while acting on a broad range of contentious and non‑contentious planning matters.

You will work within a leading team with a large and varied clientele.

This position comes with an excellent opportunity for a fast track into partnership!

Requirements

• Planning lawyer with 4+ years PQE (no upper limit on PQE)
• Excellent technical and commercial ability
• Experience handling a full caseload of high‑quality work
• Salary is negotiable depending on PQE level, plus an excellent benefits package