Junior Legal Counsel (Property and Planning)

Complete Guide: Junior Legal Counsel (Property & Planning) at Sellick Partnership

Sellick Partnership, a premier legal recruitment specialist, is partnering with a prominent FTSE 100 housebuilder to recruit a permanent, full-time Junior Legal Counsel for their established Land & Housing Association Legal Team. This hybrid role offers a highly hands-on, commercially engaged in-house opportunity with real end-to-end deal ownership.

Role Overview & Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in supporting land acquisition and development activities, collaborating closely with internal Land, Planning, and Regional Business teams. Key responsibilities include:

• Advising on a broad spectrum of residential development and land matters.
• Drafting, negotiating, and completing land acquisition, option, and development agreements.
• Leading negotiations and variations for Section 106 Agreements.
• Supporting affordable housing and housing association transactions.
• Undertaking comprehensive title reviews, property due diligence, and reporting on land risks.
• Advising on infrastructure agreements, disposals, and site setup matters.
• Building strong relationships with non-legal stakeholders across the business.

Eligibility & Candidate Profile

This position is ideal for a qualified solicitor looking to transition into or advance their career within an in-house residential development environment. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Experience: Approximately 2+ years of Post-Qualification Experience (PQE).
• Background: Proven experience in Real Estate, Residential Development, or Land/Property Law.
• Technical Skills: Strong background in land transactions, title reviews, property due diligence, and exposure to Section 106 Agreements or affordable housing transactions.
• Soft Skills: A commercial mindset with the confidence to advise non-legal stakeholders and build cross-functional relationships.

Candidates from both private practice (representing developers) and in-house housebuilders are strongly encouraged to apply.

Compensation, Benefits & Work Structure

The role offers a highly competitive package and a supportive work environment:

• Salary: £60,000 to £65,000 per annum (subject to experience) with annual salary reviews.
• Additional Perks: Company car or car allowance, along with a competitive bonus scheme.
• Work Structure: Full-time, permanent position with hybrid working arrangements (typically 2 days working from home).
• Location: York or Exeter, England, United Kingdom.

Application Process

Interested candidates can apply directly or reach out for a confidential discussion. Applications and inquiries should be directed to the recruitment consultant, David Scott, via email at David.scott@sellickpartnership.co.uk.