Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Private Client Department, managing complex cases and mentoring a talented team.
- Company: Join a respected law firm in Sussex known for its strong reputation and client care.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: This role offers strategic influence, career growth, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Must have 5+ years in private client law and leadership experience; STEP qualification is a plus.
- Other info: This is a unique opportunity to progress towards equity partnership in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
We are working in partnership with a well-established and highly regarded law firm in Sussex that is seeking an experienced Private Client Lawyer to take on the role of Head of Department. This is a senior leadership opportunity offering strategic influence, autonomy, and long-term career development, including potential progression to equity partnership.
As Head of the Private Client Department, you will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations and long-term development of the team. Key responsibilities include:
- Managing a broad and complex caseload, including wills, probate, tax planning, trusts, powers of attorney, and matters involving high-net-worth clients
- Leading and mentoring a team of solicitors and support staff
- Playing an active role in the firm's business development strategy and client relationship management
- Driving departmental growth and contributing to wider firm objectives
- Ensuring regulatory compliance and maintaining the highest standards of client care
The ideal candidate will be a senior solicitor with:
- A minimum of 5 years' post-qualification experience in private client law
- Demonstrable leadership experience, either as a current Head of Department or senior fee earner with team supervision responsibilities
- Strong technical knowledge across the full range of private client services
- A STEP qualification (desirable but not essential)
- Excellent interpersonal, management, and business development skills
A senior leadership role within a respected regional law firm
Competitive salary package with performance-related bonus and benefits
Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
A supportive, forward-thinking working environment with a clear pathway to partnership
The opportunity to lead a well-established department with an existing client base and strong reputation
This is an exceptional opportunity for a Private Client specialist seeking to advance their career in a dynamic and supportive firm.
To apply, send your CV in confidence to Gemma quoting reference GL 59889.
Head of Private Client Department employer: Austen Lloyd Limited
Contact Detail:
Austen Lloyd Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Private Client Department
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the legal field, especially those who work in private client law. Attend industry events or seminars to connect with potential colleagues and mentors who can provide insights into the firm and its culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the law firm's recent cases and achievements in private client law. Being knowledgeable about their work will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences in managing teams. Highlight specific examples of how you've successfully led a team or contributed to business development in your previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and challenges in private client law, particularly those affecting high-net-worth individuals. This knowledge will position you as a forward-thinking candidate who can contribute to the firm's strategic goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Private Client Department
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in private client law, particularly your leadership roles and any specific cases you've managed. Use keywords from the job description to align your skills with what the firm is looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also demonstrates your understanding of the firm's values and how you can contribute to their business development strategy. Mention your vision for the department and how you plan to drive growth.
Showcase Leadership Experience: In your application, emphasise your leadership experience. Provide examples of how you've mentored teams or led projects, and discuss your approach to managing a diverse caseload, especially with high-net-worth clients.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in the legal profession.
How to prepare for a job interview at Austen Lloyd Limited
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a candidate for the Head of Private Client Department, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership experience. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams, mentored junior solicitors, and contributed to departmental growth.
✨Highlight Your Technical Expertise
Make sure to emphasise your strong technical knowledge in private client law. Discuss your experience with complex cases involving wills, probate, tax planning, and trusts, especially those related to high-net-worth clients, as this will be key to the role.
✨Prepare for Business Development Questions
Since the role involves playing an active part in business development, be ready to share your strategies for client relationship management and how you've previously contributed to a firm's growth. This shows your understanding of the broader business objectives.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Compliance and Client Care
Given the importance of regulatory compliance and client care in this position, prepare to discuss how you ensure these standards are met in your work. Share examples of how you've maintained high levels of client satisfaction and adhered to legal regulations.
