Senior Associate – Planning – Cardiff – 7+ Years PQE

Overview

In this role you will join a market-leading Real Estate and Infrastructure practice to advise on planning and consenting for major infrastructure and renewable energy projects. You will work within a large team of planning specialists and collaborate across the UK network, shaping projects from inception to completion. You will support inquiries, hearings, and examinations while building strong client relationships. This opportunity combines high-profile work with an emphasis on development, leadership, and cross-functional impact.

Pay / Benefits

• Flexible, agile, and hybrid working options
• Dental, healthcare, and wellbeing support
• Structured professional development, mentoring, and training programmes
• Pro bono and community engagement initiatives
• Opportunities for international and cross-functional work
• Retirement planning, insurance, and financial wellbeing support

Responsibilities

• Advise on planning and consenting matters (DCOs, SIPs, EIAs, compulsory purchase, planning agreements)
• Draft, review, and negotiate planning documentation and related agreements
• Manage complex projects from inception to completion
• Support clients at inquiries, hearings, and examinations
• Build and maintain strong client relationships
• Contribute to business development and thought leadership in planning
• Supervise and mentor junior lawyers and support their development

Key requirements

• Qualified solicitor in England & Wales with 7+ years’ PQE in planning law or infrastructure consenting
• Experience advising on major infrastructure projects and/or renewable energy schemes
• Strong technical knowledge of planning legislation and regulatory frameworks
• Excellent drafting and negotiation skills
• Ability to manage multiple matters and work effectively under pressure
• Commercial awareness and a proactive, client-focused approach

• Client-focused mindset
• Ability to work under pressure
• Strong communication and relationship-building abilities
• Planning legislation knowledge
• Regulatory frameworks understanding
• Drafting and negotiation skills

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