Head of Corporate & Commercial – Cardiff / Newport – 5+ Years PQE
Location: Cardiff or Newport (Hybrid)
Type of Role: Permanent, Full-time
A respected and forward‑thinking regional law firm is seeking an experienced Corporate & Commercial Solicitor (5+ years PQE) to lead its Corporate & Commercial Department. This is an excellent opportunity for a senior or lead solicitor who is already managing a strong caseload and client base, and is now ready to step into a departmental leadership role within a high‑performing Commercial Group.
The Role
You’ll be responsible for leading and developing the Corporate & Commercial Department, while managing a complex and varied caseload of corporate and commercial matters, including:
- Acquisitions and disposals
- Management buyouts and buy‑ins
- Private equity investments
- Administration sales and purchases
- Shareholder agreements and joint ventures
- Private M&A and associated commercial matters
- Drafting, reviewing and negotiating a wide range of transactional documents
- Leading business development initiatives and strengthening client relationships
- Driving departmental profitability, billing and fee‑earning targets
- Ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and internal procedures
- Supervising, mentoring and developing Solicitors, Associates and Support Staff (ideal for someone stepping into their first formal management role)
- Contributing to partnership meetings, management committees and firm‑wide initiatives
- Supporting HR, Marketing, IT and Accounts in the effective running of the department
- Evaluating team members in line with the Firm’s Performance Development Review process
- Representing the firm professionally and upholding its values at all times
Candidate Requirements
This role is suited to a qualified solicitor with:
- Minimum 5 years PQE in corporate and commercial work
- Strong technical, drafting and negotiation skills
- Experience handling a busy, high‑value caseload independently
- Existing client relationships or a strong network within the market
- Excellent communication and influencing skills
- Confidence in managing competing priorities and making strategic decisions
- High attention to detail, organisation and commercial awareness
- Motivation to step into a leadership role — ideal for someone who is currently a senior/lead solicitor but not yet formally managing a team
- Experience in business development and client relationship management
The firm offers:
- A senior leadership role within a respected and growing department
- A supportive, collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment
- Clear progression pathways and involvement in partnership‑level decision making
- Recognition for high‑quality work and client service
- Flexible working arrangements where possible
At Chadwick Nott, we are committed to developing a diverse and inclusive culture as well as supporting our large client network achieve the same. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications of all qualified candidates regardless of their age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, culture or any other personal characteristic. We champion and celebrate diversity in the workplace. Where a level of experience is indicated, please note that this is only a guideline.
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Head of Corporate & Commercial – Cardiff / Newport employer: Chadwick Nott Legal Recruitment
Join a highly regarded Employment & HR team in Bristol, where you'll benefit from a supportive and people-focused culture within a well-established national law firm. With opportunities for career progression, hybrid working arrangements, and exposure to high-quality work, this role offers a rewarding environment for an ambitious Employment Associate looking to thrive in their legal career.
Contact Details:
Chadwick Nott Legal Recruitment Recruitment Team
