Senior Property and Projects Lawyer

Are you a seasoned legal professional with a passion for property law and public service? We are looking for an experienced Senior Property and Projects Lawyer to join our Legal Services team and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our borough. This is a high-impact position advising on complex legal matters across the Council’s commercial, residential, and community property portfolios. You will also provide strategic legal support on major development and regeneration projects, working with limited supervision and in close collaboration with senior officers and multidisciplinary teams. You will be responsible for leading on high-value and complex property transactions including acquisitions, disposals, leases, licences, and development agreements, along with: Acting as the Council’s principal legal negotiator in commercial property and development projects. Providing legal advice on regeneration initiatives, infrastructure agreements, and land rights. Drafting and negotiating robust legal documentation to protect the Council’s interests. Supporting corporate governance and attend committee meetings as legal advisor. Mentoring junior legal staff and contributing to the continuous improvement of legal service. To excel in this role it is essential that you are a Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of CILEx with a current or eligible practising certificate, have a minimum 5 years’ post-qualification experience, as well as having: Strong expertise in land and property law, including commercial landlord and tenant matters. Proven track record in complex negotiations and legal drafting. Excellent communication skills and ability to advise senior stakeholders. In addition you will be competent in managing a varied caseload independently. Experience in planning law, commercial contracts, procurement, company or charity law would be desirable along with an understanding of corporate governance and the role of elected members. This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in local government while advancing your legal career. You will be part of a supportive team committed to excellence, innovation, and public service. For an informal discussion about the role please contact Mildred Pountney, Principal Solicitor (Property and Projects) Click to view a Job Description When applying - Please ensure that you have received confirmation of a submitted application once completed. For any assistance in completing the application form, please email Hybrid Working - We are an organisation that puts people first and understands how important employee wellbeing is. We want to help you to balance your working life and home life and offer flexible ways of working to help structure your life in a positive and productive way; both at home and in the office. This maximises personal development and collaborative working. Competitive remuneration package - We offer an excellent salary linked pension scheme, generous annual leave with flexi time, free life insurance, supportive relocation package and opportunities for training and development. With devolution news and talks evolving across the country for local authorities, we understand that there may be some uncertainty for those currently serving within the sector. Although Kent and Medway have not been included in the Devolution Priority Programme, discussions continue in this area. Kent, Medway and all District and Borough Councils in the Southeast will continue to work closely with each other to deliver vital services to our communities. This is an exciting, but stable time to join our organisation. Ashford Borough Council recognises the need to ensure the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults when they come into contact with the services we provide We welcome applications form the Armed Forces Community