Environmental Managing Associate

A distinguished national law firm is seeking an Environmental Managing Associate to join its esteemed Planning and Environment Group, located in Bristol. This appointment presents a rare opportunity to work alongside a partner of notable repute, recognised for his profound expertise in environmental law, within a multi-disciplinary team that advises at the highest echelons across both public and private sectors. The successful candidate will be exposed to complex and high-profile matters encompassing waste regulation, climate change legislation, contaminated land, and regulatory defence, whilst collaborating closely with commercial, corporate, and real estate specialists. The firm offers a supportive and inclusive environment that values your dedication and passion for environmental law, complemented by flexible working arrangements and comprehensive professional development initiatives.

What you’ll do:

In the capacity of Environmental Managing Associate you will:

Deliver expert legal counsel on matters pertaining to environmental regulation including natural environment protection, biodiversity enhancement, sustainability initiatives, circular economy strategies, contaminated land remediation, waste management compliance, water regulation policies, climate change adaptation measures, and regulatory defence.
Guide clients through the planning process from the inception of proposals to advocacy stages by providing clear and pragmatic guidance tailored to secure optimal outcomes for each project.
Advise on complex end-of-waste issues and environmental permitting for waste operations as well as defending enforcement actions initiated by regulators or authorities.
Collaborate with commercial, corporate and real estate lawyers within the wider group to provide integrated solutions for development projects in key sectors such as clean energy and waste.
Assist public sector organisations, local authorities, manufacturers, housebuilders, commercial developers, minerals operators and utilities in navigating multifaceted environmental law challenges.
Contribute to crisis and risk management advice and training sessions in partnership with the Regulatory Department to ensure clients are adequately prepared for unforeseen events or regulatory scrutiny.
Participate in real estate and corporate transactional support by offering specialist input on environmental permitting requirements, emissions controls, pollution prevention strategies and associated criminal defence matters.
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of evolving environmental legislation and best practices so that clients receive accurate information regarding their compliance obligations.
Engage in knowledge sharing activities within the team to cultivate a collaborative learning environment that supports professional development for all members.
Represent clients before regulators or courts when required by preparing robust casework for hearings or negotiations.

What you bring:

The ideal candidate for the Environmental Managing Associate position will possess:

Demonstrated experience as a qualified solicitor (minimum six years post-qualification) specialising in environmental law within a reputable practice setting.
Proven record of advising on real estate transactions with significant environmental permitting components including contaminated land assessments and emissions controls.
Comprehensive understanding of UK waste regulation frameworks including interpretation of end-of-waste criteria and defence against enforcement actions.
Capacity to provide strategic guidance on climate change legislation as it pertains to development projects or operational compliance for diverse client portfolios.
Experience supporting corporate transactions where environmental due diligence is integral to risk management outcomes.
Exceptional interpersonal skills facilitating effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams comprising planning consultants, commercial lawyers and regulatory experts.
Outstanding written communication abilities for drafting clear advice notes as well as preparing persuasive submissions for advocacy purposes.
Commitment to ongoing professional development evidenced through participation in training programmes or industry seminars focused on emerging trends in environmental law.
Enthusiastic approach towards mentoring junior colleagues or contributing positively to team culture through knowledge sharing initiatives.
Sensitivity towards client needs coupled with an empathetic attitude when managing complex or high-pressure situations.

What sets this company apart:

This organisation distinguishes itself as one of the United Kingdom’s most knowledgeable legal teams dedicated exclusively to planning and environment matters. Its multi-disciplinary approach ensures every client benefits from seamless integration of expertise across planning consultancy, commercial law and regulatory affairs. The team is widely recognised for its depth of experience managing high-profile cases involving sustainability initiatives, circular economy projects and crisis management scenarios. Employees enjoy access to flexible working opportunities tailored around individual preferences alongside generous support for professional development through regular training sessions. The culture is defined by inclusivity-where every perspective is valued-and by supportive leadership committed to helping you realise your career ambitions whilst making meaningful contributions towards positive environmental outcomes nationwide.

For more information about this Environment Managing Associate role or similar roles in Southwest please get in touch with me Jack Sheehan on or

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates