Managing Associate / Legal Director – Social & Affordable Housing (6+ PQE)

Full-time | Hybrid | Manchester, UK

Overview

Our client, a leading international law firm, is seeking a Managing Associate or Legal Director to join its highly regarded Social & Affordable Housing team.

This is an exciting opportunity to work with a broad range of clients in the social housing sector, including housing associations, registered providers, funders, and investors. You will lead on complex, high-value transactions and play a key role in shaping the growth of the practice.

The role offers both high levels of responsibility and strong support, within a team recognised for its expertise and collaborative culture.

Responsibilities

• Advise housing associations, registered providers, funders, and investors on a variety of social and affordable housing matters.
• Lead major transactions such as bond issues, private placements, syndicated and bilateral loans, and sustainability-linked financing.
• Provide innovative, commercially focused legal solutions tailored to client needs.
• Work closely with colleagues across disciplines to deliver seamless, multidisciplinary advice.
• Contribute to business development and growth of the practice by building and maintaining client relationships.
• Mentor, support, and develop junior lawyers and paralegals within the team.
• Actively engage in ongoing training and leadership development programmes.

Requirements

• UK-qualified solicitor with at least 6 years’ PQE.
• Strong background in real estate finance, ideally with experience in the social & affordable housing sector.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage complex transactions.
• Excellent client relationship and business development skills.
• Strong leadership, mentoring, and team collaboration abilities.
• Established client connections within the housing sector.
• Experience advising on sustainability-linked financing.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Exposure to high-value and sector-leading transactions.
• Supportive environment with access to mentoring, coaching, and leadership programmes.
• Clear career progression opportunities within a growing practice.
• Inclusive workplace culture with active employee resource groups.