At Westminster City Council, our work is full of extraordinary stories. Every day, our lawyers help shape a city known across the world – balancing vibrant night time economies, iconic events, complex developments and the needs of residents and businesses alike. This is work with real visibility, real consequence and real impact.

We are looking for a Senior Solicitor to join our Bi Borough Planning, Licensing and Highways Team, undertaking licensing work for both Westminster City Council and the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.

The Role:

A role at the heart of a global city

Westminster is the largest licensing authority in the country, with a uniquely diverse and challenging portfolio of licensed premises. From Soho to major cultural and sporting events, this is licensing work on a scale and profile few organisations can offer. Our decisions are regularly scrutinised, often attract national media attention, and frequently help shape best practice across the country.

You will advise Licensing Sub‑Committees across both boroughs as a Legal Adviser on a rota basis, attending hearings in person. The work is varied, fast‑paced and intellectually demanding – and professionally rewarding.

Growing talent, supporting each other

We work the Westminster Way – valuing difference, acting with integrity and taking responsibility for the impact of our work. You do not need to be a licensing specialist already. We welcome candidates with planning or highways experience who want to build a long‑term career in this specialist area. You will be supported by a close‑knit, highly experienced team who take pride in developing people, sharing knowledge and delivering excellent advice to Members and clients.

About You:

You will have experience in some or all of the following:

• Advising on applications under the Licensing Act 2003 and Gambling Act 2005, including Sexual Entertainment Venues.

• Advising Members at Licensing Sub‑Committee hearings and providing clear, confident legal advice.

• Drafting high‑quality written advice, summaries and full decisions that stand up to scrutiny.

• Advising on licensing policy.

• Conducting licensing appeals in the Magistrates’ Court.

Most importantly, you will bring sound judgement, professionalism and a commitment to public service.

Why join us?

Because this is more than a job. It is the opportunity to work on some of the most high‑profile licensing matters in the country, to influence decisions that matter, and to be part of a team that is proud of the impact it makes. At Westminster, everyone is valued, and everyone has the chance to grow, contribute and make a difference.

Westminster City Council is committed to supporting Care Leavers into the workplace. Care Leavers seeking their first job and who wish to be considered under our scheme, will automatically be invited to interview should they meet the essential criteria for the role. 

The Council is committed to achieving diverse shortlists to support our desire to increase the number of staff from underrepresented groups in our workforce. We especially encourage applications from a Global Majority (GM), people who are Black, Asian, Brown, dual-heritage, indigenous to the global south, and or have been racialised as 'ethnic minorities' (formally known as B.A.M.E , Black, Asian and multiple ethnic) background and, while the role is open to all applicants, we will utilise the positive action provisions of the Equality Act 2010 to appoint a candidate from a global majority background where there is a choice between two candidates of equal merit. If you are from a Global Majority background you can self-declare this to the hiring manager as part of our positive action commitments.

What We Offer: