Job Description Associate / Managing Associate – Affordable Housing Development Salary : £60,000 – £80,000 Bonus Location : Leeds Experience : 4 years PQE, UK Practice Delivering Impactful Housing Solutions Join a well-established legal practice with a reputation for supporting major residential development and affordable housing projects across the UK. This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious Associate or Managing Associate to play a key role in a thriving team, advising on complex development, regeneration, and site acquisition matters. About the Role Advising on all aspects of affordable housing and residential development transactions, including site assembly, acquisitions, disposals, and related infrastructure agreements Acting for registered providers, developers, and local authorities on large-scale projects Drafting, negotiating, and completing development agreements, collaboration agreements, and related contracts Managing due diligence, title reviews, and risk assessments for complex sites Coordinating with colleagues and stakeholders to deliver seamless project outcomes Supervising and mentoring junior lawyers and trainees within the team About You – Essential Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales with 4 years’ PQE in residential development or affordable housing Strong technical expertise in site acquisition, development agreements, and associated infrastructure matters Excellent drafting, negotiation, and project management skills Demonstrated ability to manage complex transactions and client relationships Experience supervising or mentoring junior team members Desirable Experience acting for registered providers or local authorities Knowledge of regeneration schemes and mixed-tenure developments Familiarity with housing association governance and funding arrangements What’s On Offer Competitive salary with annual bonus Career progression and professional development support Investors in People Gold-accredited firm, demonstrating a genuine commitment to colleague development and wellbeing Clear, structured pathways for career progression and leadership, with tailored training and mentoring at every stage Hybrid and flexible working model to support work-life balance Comprehensive wellbeing support, prioritising mental, physical, and financial health, and a dedicated focus on inclusion and belonging Collaborative, supportive culture where your ideas and contributions are truly valued Opportunities to work on impactful, high-profile cases with a diverse and ambitious client base Enhanced pension and private healthcare, plus a competitive annual bonus Regular team and social events, community engagement, and a strong sense of purpose beyond the day job About Our Client Our client is one of the UK’s leading law firms, known for its genuine commitment to people—both clients and colleagues. With a strong national presence and deep roots in the North, the firm is recognised for delivering technical excellence alongside a personal, approachable service. Their Private Client team is trusted by a diverse range of individuals and families, including high-net-worth clients, to navigate complex wealth, succession, and tax matters with sensitivity and expertise. The firm’s culture is collaborative, inclusive, and ambitious, offering colleagues the freedom to shape their careers within a supportive environment. Continual investment in professional development, innovation, and wellbeing has earned the firm national recognition and multiple industry accolades. Joining this team means becoming part of a forward-thinking, people-first practice where your expertise and ideas are truly valued. Location & Working Arrangements Based in modern Leeds offices with flexible and hybrid working options available. How to Apply For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Lee Hawthorne-Finch at Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions ( lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com / 0333 996 2882). Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is committed to ethical recruitment and supporting candidates throughout every stage of the hiring process.