Principal Lawyer (Property) – AR

Job Details

Job Description – Principal Lawyer (Property)

Location: Greater Manchester (hybrid working)
Employer: Manchester City Council (working in partnership with Salford City Council and Greater Manchester Combined Authority)

Role Overview

We are seeking a Principal Lawyer (Property) to provide high-level legal expertise on complex and high-profile property and regeneration matters across Greater Manchester. The role supports major strategic projects involving land, development, and public asset management for multiple public sector organisations.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead on complex property transactions, including acquisitions, disposals, leases, and development agreements
  • Advise on major regeneration and infrastructure projects across Greater Manchester
  • Draft, negotiate, and review high-value legal documentation, including joint venture and funding arrangements
  • Provide strategic legal advice to senior officers and elected members
  • Manage legal risk in relation to public land and development schemes
  • Work collaboratively with planners, surveyors, developers, and external legal teams
  • Support delivery of cross-authority projects involving MCC, Salford City Council, and GMCA

Person Specification

  • Qualified solicitor (England & Wales) with strong experience in commercial property law
  • Proven background in large-scale property, regeneration, or development transactions
  • Experience working within or alongside local government or public sector bodies
  • Strong negotiation, drafting, and advisory skills
  • Ability to manage complex, politically sensitive projects
  • Confident working with senior stakeholders and multidisciplinary teams

Why This Role

This is a senior strategic position offering the opportunity to work on city-shaping development projects that directly impact housing, infrastructure, and economic growth across Greater Manchester.