Job Title

Principal Lawyer – Planning & HighwaysLocation: Huntingdon, Northampton or Shefford (with travel to other offices as required)Salary: £59,193.75 – £73,861.50 per annum, dependent on experienceAdditional Allowance: £1,435 per annum Management AllowanceHours: Full-time, 37 hours per weekContract Type: PermanentAn exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced legal professional to join a well-regarded public sector legal service as a Principal Lawyer, specialising in Planning and Highways. This is a key leadership role offering the chance to work with a diverse range of clients across multiple local authorities.Key Responsibilities:Lead and manage a team of lawyers delivering high quality legal advice on planning, development and highways mattersAct as the principal legal advisor to client councils and represent them in courts, tribunals, and negotiationsOversee a complex and sensitive caseload, ensuring timely, accurate and pragmatic legal supportSupervise and develop team members, ensuring efficient caseload management and professional developmentBuild strong client relationships and support business development opportunitiesDeliver training sessions and legal briefings to clients to enhance their knowledge and self-sufficiencyDeputise for the Head of Service and contribute to the strategic management of the wider Property, Planning & Highways teamAbout You:Qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal ExecutiveIn-depth knowledge of planning and highways law, ideally within a local government contextStrong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to mentor and develop othersExcellent communication, advocacy and client care skillsAbility to manage complex legal issues with sound judgement and a proactive approachExperience of working under pressure and managing competing priorities effectivelyA commitment to high professional standards, continuous service improvement and Lexcel complianceDesirable Experience:Experience of advising on large-scale development projects and constitutional mattersKnowledge of contract, commercial or litigation lawThis role offers a dynamic and rewarding career path for a legal professional looking to lead in a collaborative, public sector legal environment. If you’re a strategic thinker with a passion for planning and highways law, we’d love to hear from you.To apply or find out more, please get in touch with your CV and contact details.