Agricultural Property Partner – Head of Department

About the role

The firm is launching a specialist Agriculture & Rural Land team in Dorchester and seeks a senior solicitor to lead the practice as Head of Department. You will advise farmers, landed estates, rural businesses and developers on a wide range of agricultural property matters while building and commercialising the new team.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, develop and commercialise the Agriculture & Rural Land practice.
• Provide advice on farm and estate sales and purchases, tenancy matters (Agricultural Holdings Act, Farm Business Tenancies), rights of way, easements, overage and diversification projects.
• Advise on renewables, natural capital work and rural disputes.
• Work with Private Client, Planning & Construction and Commercial teams to deliver cross‑service solutions.
• Supervise, mentor and recruit fee‑earners and support staff as the team expands.
• Support business development events, sector thought leadership and local networking across the West Country.

Required profile

• Qualified solicitor with substantial experience in agricultural/rural property law (approximately 7+ years PQE).
• Proven track record of handling farm/estate transactions, tenancy issues and rural diversification projects.
• Demonstrable business development skills and existing contacts within the landed estates, farming and rural sectors.
• Leadership experience in managing or mentoring fee‑earners and building a team.
• Commercial, client‑focused approach with strong technical and drafting abilities.

Required skills

• In‑depth knowledge of the Agricultural Holdings Act and Farm Business Tenancies.
• Expertise in property transactions, tenancy law, rights of way and easements.
• Experience with rural diversification, renewables and natural capital projects.
• Strong client advisory and commercial drafting skills.

What we offer

• Hybrid working with a flexible schedule.
• Opportunity to build and shape a new practice with firm support.
• Competitive salary range.
• Collaboration with specialist teams in construction, planning and private client.