Property Development Solicitor (5-8 PQE)
Location: Cardiff or Bangor (North Wales)
Hybrid working: Up to 2 days per week from home after successful completion of probation
The Opportunity
An established and growing legal practice is seeking an experienced Property Development Solicitor (5-8 years' PQE) to join its well-regarded property team. This role offers flexibility to be based in either Cardiff or Bangor, with a structured hybrid working arrangement available following successful completion of probation.
This position is suited to a solicitor with strong, hands-on property development experience who can hit the ground running from day one. It is not suitable for candidates whose experience is limited to general commercial property work without a clear focus on development.
The successful candidate will play a key role within a collaborative development team, advising on a broad range of commercial and residential development matters. The role requires confidence working both independently and as part of a wider team, delivering pragmatic, commercially focused advice to a diverse client base including private developers, housing associations, and funders.
Key Responsibilities
Managing land acquisitions, including options, conditional contracts, and package deals
Acting on conditional agreements for lease and pre-let arrangements
Leading on site assembly matters, including planning agreements, adoption agreements, utility wayleaves, and substation transfers
Supporting construction-related documentation as required
Advising on funder requirements when acting for borrowers
Undertaking detailed development due diligence when acting for funders
Handling disposals of completed units and investment sales
Skills & Experience:
Qualifications & Technical Expertise
Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales with 5-8 years' PQE
Demonstrable, substantive experience in property development work is essential
Ability to manage a varied caseload with minimal supervision and deliver from the outset
Strong drafting skills across acquisitions, disposals, and development documentation
Experience advising across the full lifecycle of development projectsCore Competencies
Ability to provide clear, concise, and commercially focused advice
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Confidence handling complex or high-value mattersCommunication & Client Skills
Excellent written and verbal communication
Strong client relationship management and service delivery skills
Ability to present technical legal advice in a practical, business-focused manner
Person Profile:
Essential
Commercially aware with a pragmatic, solutions-driven approach
Highly organised with the ability to manage competing priorities
Proactive and collaborative team player
Professional, composed, and exercises sound judgement under pressure
Confident operating with minimal supervision and able to integrate quickly into an active caseloadDesirable
Experience supervising or mentoring junior colleagues
Involvement in business development and networking activities
What's on Offer
Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
Clear opportunities for progression and long-term career development
High-quality, varied development work
Supportive and collaborative team environment
Flexible working: choice of Cardiff or Bangor office base, plus hybrid working (2 days from home post-probation)
Any candidates with the above experience who are interested in this opportunity should contact Sam Higgins at Simpson Judge on (phone number removed) or via email at