Commercial Real Estate Head of Department
Location: Manchester
PQE: 5+ Years
Position: Senior Associate / Head of Property Department (In-House)
The Opportunity
A growing, commercially focused group in Manchester is seeking an experienced Property Solicitor to lead and expand its property function. This is a senior, strategic role suited to someone who thrives on autonomy and enjoys shaping departmental growth while remaining hands-on with a varied portfolio of property work.
The group has a substantial and diverse property portfolio and requires a confident, commercial lawyer who can manage matters from inception through to completion, particularly on the landlord side, while building and mentoring a small developing team.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the property legal function, acting as the primary point of contact for all property-related matters across the group.
* Manage and progress landlord-side property transactions from start to finish, including:
* Leases (grant, renewal, variations)
* Acquisitions and disposals
* Portfolio management
* Commercial lettings
* Rent reviews and ongoing landlord obligations
* Provide clear, practical and commercially focused advice to internal stakeholders.
* Work closely with senior leadership to support property strategy, risk management and decision-making.
* Oversee external counsel where required and ensure costs are controlled effectively.
* Build out the property team, including supervising junior staff, supporting recruitment, and establishing efficient workflows and processes.
* Contribute to the development of legal frameworks, documentation templates, and best practice protocols across the department.
About You
The ideal candidate will have:
* 5+ years PQE as a Property Solicitor (commercial property or mixed landlord/tenant work).
* Strong experience working on landlord-side transactions from inception to completion.
* Confidence handling a high-volume, varied caseload with minimal supervision.
* Strong commercial awareness and the ability to advise non-legal stakeholders clearly and concisely.
* Previous experience supervising junior lawyers or contributing to the development of a team (or a genuine desire to step into that responsibility).
* Excellent organisational skills and the ability to build a robust, efficient in-house property function.
Why Join?
A senior, influential position with the autonomy to design and grow the property legal department.
Direct collaboration with senior management and involvement in strategic decision-making.
A stable, expanding group with a substantial property footprint.
Opportunity to step away from the constraints of private practice and enjoy a more commercially integrated role.
Competitive salary and long-term progression opportunities within the group structure.
How to Apply
If you’re an experienced Property Solicitor ready to take ownership of an in-house department and help shape its long-term direction, please get in touch to discuss this opportunity further.