Principal Lawyer (Property) - AR

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.