Job Description

A leading national practice is seeking a Principal Planning Solicitor to join it's highly ranked team in Birmingham. This is a fantastic opportunity for a senior-level Solicitor with strong planning experience to work on nationally significant development and infrastructure projects, within a supportive, forward-thinking law firm offering genuine work-life balance and career progression.
The opportunity:
As a Principal Planning Solicitor, you will:

• Advise on complex planning matters including planning applications, development consent orders (DCOs), compulsory purchase orders (CPOs), infrastructure agreements and planning litigation
• Work with high-profile clients in commercial development, residential-led strategic land and national infrastructure sectors
• Represent both public and private sector clients, including developers, housebuilders, local authorities and national agencies
• Provide commercially focused advice with an emphasis on strategic solutions
• Play a key role in mentoring Junior Lawyers, contributing to business development and supporting client training initiatives

Key requirements:
We're looking to speak to a qualified Solicitor (England & Wales) with:

• Strong experience in planning law from a reputable private practice or public sector body
• Expertise in planning agreements, CPO, DCO, planning appeals and judicial reviews
• Excellent drafting and negotiation skills
• The ability to manage complex caseloads and meet client deadlines
• A collaborative mindset and enthusiasm for team development and client engagement

Why apply?
This role offers an ideal platform for a Senior Planning Solicitor looking to step up into a Principal Associate position or make a lateral move to a firm that offers:

• Top-tier legal work with nationally recognised clients and projects
• Hybrid working and flexible arrangements (2-3 days office presence)
• Excellent salary and bonus structure
• Market-leading benefits package, including options to take a 3-months sabbatical
• Recognition as one of the UK's best law firms to work for with a strong emphasis on diversity, wellbeing and career progression

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Our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Mission
At IDEX, we strive for an inclusion-first company culture where everyone is treated fairly and can bring their authentic selves to work. We recognise and acknowledge that diverse representation at every level of our business requires continuous and measurable effort. We are committed to driving conscious inclusion across our business and creating equitable pathways.

Skills Required