Lead on complex planning, development and infrastructure matters.
Draft, negotiate and oversee Section 106 agreements and associated obligations for major development schemes.
Advise developers, landowners, housebuilders, local authorities and national organisations on sensitive and high‑value planning matters.
Manage contentious work, including enforcement matters, appeals and judicial review proceedings.
Work closely with our wider multidisciplinary consultancy
including planning, heritage and architecture specialists
to deliver a seamless and integrated service.
Supervise, mentor and support junior colleagues as the team continues to expand.
Play an active role in business development, strengthening existing relationships and helping to develop new opportunities.

Extensive experience in planning law, gained in a reputable public, private or mixed‑practice environment.
Experience leading or advising on planning strategy for major residential, mixed‑use or infrastructure developments.
A strong track record of drafting and negotiating complex Section 106 agreements, advising on compulsory purchase matters and guiding clients through major planning processes.
Excellent technical and drafting skills, with a commercial, solutions‑focused approach.
Experience handling contentious matters such as appeals, inquiries, enforcement issues or judicial review.
A proactive, collaborative approach to client management, team development and practice growth.
A desire to contribute to the continued evolution of a highly regarded and expanding planning team.

We embrace agile working and offer a blended approach to where and how we work.
We appreciate that people have different needs and preferences and we’re keen to be flexible, after all, we value what you do, not where you do it.
We have the following hubs across the UK: Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Leeds, Leicester, Lincoln, London, Milton Keynes, Nottingham, Sheffield, Stratford upon Avon & Tunbridge Wells.
We offer flexible location options, with a preference for this role for candidates to be based near one of our Midlands hubs, including Milton Keynes or Sheffield.
Additional information: Please be aware, for some vacancies, where we receive high numbers of applications we may need to bring the close date forward.
Due to the nature of the work undertaken, confirmation of employment will be subject to a variety of checks which will be carried out once an offer of employment is accepted. Details of the checks can be found here.
Equal opportunities Shakespeare Martineau is a committed equal opportunities employer. We seek to attract, develop and retain talented people from a diverse range of backgrounds and cultures. We value and respect individuality and encourage a culture within our business where people can be themselves and be valued for their strengths and experiences. Everyone who either applies to or works for the firm is treated equally, regardless of their gender, age, ethnic origin, nationality, marital status, sexual orientation or religious beliefs.

Senior Associate – Legal Director, Legal Planning

Key skills