Senior Solicitor - Residential Development

JMC Legal Recruitment; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A top 100 UK law firm in Newcastle upon Tyne is seeking a Senior Solicitor specializing in Residential Development. The successful candidate will have at least 7 years of PQE and a proven track record in residential development, acting for a variety of clients including housebuilders and affordable housing providers. This role offers a competitive salary, hybrid working arrangements, and opportunities for professional development in a supportive team environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Excellent benefits package

Hybrid working arrangements

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years PQE with experience in residential development.
• Proven ability to build and nurture strong client relationships.
• Confident in guiding junior colleagues and contributing to team development.

Responsibilities

• Act for leading housebuilders and developers on residential schemes.
• Advise on major development matters including sale contracts and development funding.
• Oversee complex transactions and maintain team reputation for excellence.

Skills

Residential development expertise

Client relationship building

Team leadership

Understanding of living sector trends

Job description

Senior Solicitor - Residential Development

Senior Residential Development Lawyer | 7+ PQE | Top 100 Law Firm | Newcastle

The Firm

This Top 100 UK law firm stands out for its sector‑led approach and modern outlook. With particular strength in Real Estate, Social Housing, Construction, Renewable Energy, and Private Wealth, it delivers commercially astute legal advice to a wide‑ranging client base.

What really differentiates this firm is its people‑first ethos. Renowned for encouraging work‑life balance and genuine flexibility, it's a place where professionals are supported to thrive in their careers while maintaining a healthy life outside of work. A collaborative environment, regular social events, and structured development initiatives create the perfect setting for progression, innovation, and job satisfaction.

The Role

The firm is looking to recruit a Senior Residential Development Solicitor to join one of the UK's most prominent Residential teams. You'll act for leading housebuilders, land promoters, PRS investors, affordable housing providers, and developers on flagship residential and mixed‑use schemes.

The team is expanding rapidly, driven by continued success in attracting high‑calibre clients. As part of the role, you'll advise on major development matters, including conditional and unconditional sale contracts, option and promotion agreements, development funding, forward commitments, and collaboration arrangements. You'll play a key role in overseeing complex transactions and helping the team maintain its reputation for excellence.

About You

• Experience: Minimum 7 years' PQE with solid experience in residential development - whether in housebuilding, build‑to‑rent, strategic land, or affordable housing.
• Client Engagement: Proven ability to build and nurture strong client relationships within the UK residential sector.
• Leadership: Confident in guiding junior colleagues and contributing to team development.
• Expertise: Deep understanding of the living sector and awareness of current trends and legal developments.

What's in it for you

• A competitive salary and an excellent benefits package.
• A varied, complex caseload with genuine opportunities to influence outcomes.
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements, including options to base yourself in Bristol.
• The chance to be part of a national, high‑performing team doing standout work in a progressive, supportive environment.