Senior Fee Earner (Agricultural)

Senior Fee Earner (Agricultural) Preston

My client is a market-leading firm of solicitors with offices across the North West, providing services to both business and private clients. Renowned as an employer of choice, the firm fosters a culture that challenges the conventional approach of law firms, focusing on achieving exceptional results for clients while attracting and nurturing talented individuals.

The Rural Property team is expanding and seeks a qualified senior lawyer with at least seven years of proven experience in rural property law, particularly in agricultural matters. The ideal candidate will have a history of delivering excellent client service and possess strong leadership and management capabilities. They will play a key role in the firm’s strategic direction through effective people and financial management and active participation in business development. This position requires proficiency in operating a Case Management System and strong IT skills. The successful candidate will also demonstrate exceptional communication skills, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to confidently lead and support others in a dynamic commercial environment.

The role involves advising a diverse client base, including landowners, estate owners, investors, lenders, and developers. The team is committed to delivering proactive, sector-specific advice that clients can understand and implement effectively.

Responsibilities include managing financial aspects of cases, providing exemplary client service, and fostering relationships with clients and colleagues across departments. The candidate will supervise and mentor team members, serving as a key figure in their development. Collaboration with other service lines, such as the tax and succession planning team within the Private Client Department and the Property Litigation Department, is essential. Additionally, the role involves contributing to business planning and the strategic direction of the Landed Estates and Rural Business Sector, particularly for the non-contentious team. The candidate will be responsible for negotiating and drafting transactional documents, providing tailored advice and guidance to clients, and actively promoting the firm’s values.

Applicants must have a minimum of seven years PQE in a property department, with expertise in rural land ownership and agricultural property matters. Experience should include handling acquisitions and disposals of working farms and land, negotiating Farm Business Tenancies and Grazing Licences, advising on sporting rights, drafting easements, first registrations of unregistered land, and completing security work, including single and dual representation.

The ideal candidate will possess excellent organizational and planning skills, strong technical proficiency, and an ability to prioritize tasks to meet strict deadlines. They must excel in client-facing roles and demonstrate advanced IT skills. A proven ability to engage in business development activities and build a robust network of contacts for both themselves and their team is essential. A self-motivated team player with a desire to contribute to the firm’s continued success will thrive in this role.

To apply, please send your most recent CV to Tracy Carlisle at t.carlisle@clayton-legal.co.uk or call 0161 9147 357 for more information