At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a Private Client team, advising on wealth preservation and estate planning.
- Company: Award-winning practice in Belfast with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and career-defining opportunities.
- Other info: Exclusive opportunity with excellent facilities in Belfast city centre.
- Why this job: Join a growing practice and make a real impact in private client law.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with substantial Private Client experience and leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ per year.
A leading, accredited and award-winning practice in Belfast seeks to hire a Private Client leader to head up the department. Abacus has been retained exclusively on this search, so you won’t see it advertised elsewhere.
The role
- Take full leadership of an established and accredited Private Client team, lead the team and maximise client relationships.
- Advise individuals and families for whom wealth preservation is the priority, covering wills, trusts, estate and tax planning, probate and estate administration, charity law, powers of attorney and the Office of Care & Protection (OCP) work. Some contentious probate work is also available e.g. wills, trust & inheritance disputes.
- Drive the growth of the practice through business development, referral networks and cross-selling with the firm’s wider teams, including the contentious probate and litigation specialists.
- Work together with other departments in the practice.
- Mentor and develop the team, shape recruitment and build the next generation of Private Client talent.
- Contribute with a real voice in how the department and the wider firm develops.
What we’re looking for
- Qualified solicitor with substantial Private Client experience (PQE is indicative).
- Proven leadership experience, or clear readiness to step up and run a department.
- A strong private client track record, a profile and network to enhance with this firm’s support.
- Commercial mindset with a genuine appetite for business development.
- Technical excellence across wills, trusts, tax planning and estate administration, with STEP qualifications desirable.
- Warm, practical and trusted by clients going through sensitive family and financial decisions.
Why apply
- A highly competitive and attractive remuneration on offer for the right individual.
- Rare career-defining opportunity within this niche area of law.
- A genuine leadership opportunity with a clear progression route for the right person.
- A growing practice with a loyal client base across Northern Ireland, Ireland and the UK.
- Join a firm with an excellent collaborative and partner-led culture.
- Belfast city centre location, hybrid working and excellent facilities.
Exclusive to Abacus. Apply only through us for a fully confidential conversation. Your details will not be shared without your consent. Please contact Alan directly on – day or evening.
Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland
Salary: Not disclosed
Job Type: Permanent
Date Posted: 10 November, 2026
Private Client – Head of Department, Exclusive Search in Belfast employer: Abacus Recruitment
Join an award-winning property team in Northern Ireland, where you'll have the opportunity to work on significant real estate transactions while developing your career. With a hybrid working culture, mentorship from industry leaders, and a clear progression path, this role offers a supportive environment for growth and learning. Experience a diverse range of projects, from residential deals to multi-million-pound developments, making it an exciting place to build your future in real estate law.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Private Client – Head of Department, Exclusive Search in Belfast
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Abacus Recruitment, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Private Client – Head of Department, Exclusive Search in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Abacus Recruitment, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Abacus Recruitment and the specific role of Private Client – Head of Department, Exclusive Search. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Abacus Recruitment’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Abacus Recruitment
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Abacus Recruitment.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Abacus Recruitment.
