At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage a dynamic Private Client team while providing hands-on legal expertise.
- Company: Established law firm with a strong reputation and forward-thinking approach.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, generous leave policies, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Supportive environment with genuine opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Step into a leadership role and shape the future of a successful department.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with 8+ years' experience in Private Client work and proven leadership skills.
A senior opportunity with genuine leadership potential. Our client is offering an excellent opportunity for an experienced Private Client Solicitor to take the lead of an established and growing Private Client Department. With a strong reputation and a forward-thinking approach, our client is looking for a senior solicitor who is not only technically excellent, but who genuinely enjoys developing people, delivering outstanding client service and shaping the future direction of a successful team.
This is a role that offers far more than simply heading up a department. The successful solicitor will become part of the wider management team, working alongside partners and department heads and having a genuine opportunity to influence the continued growth and development of the business.
The benefits package includes:
- Competitive salary and performance-related bonus
- Staff bonus scheme - available after one completed financial year
- Pension with matched contributions up to 5%
- Death in Service benefit of four times annual salary
- 18 weeks' full-pay maternity leave, followed by 8 weeks at half pay for eligible employees
- Two weeks' full-pay paternity leave
- Additional contractual adoption and shared parental leave pay
- Up to 20 days' sickness pay
- Christmas Club savings scheme
- Friends and family discount on legal services
- Free wills for staff
- Discounted travel schemes, including POP cards and Railcards
- Discounted city-centre car parking
- Paid time off for fertility treatment
- Supportive, inclusive working environment
- Genuine opportunities for professional development and career progression
The successful candidate will lead and manage the Private Client team, creating a culture built around collaboration, technical excellence and continuous development. The role will combine hands-on legal expertise with strategic leadership, including advising on wills, trusts, estate planning, probate and tax matters, while providing supervision, mentoring and training across the department.
They will also play a key role in:
- Developing and implementing the department's strategy
- Supporting the continued growth of the Private Client offering
- Driving business development and strengthening client relationships
- Encouraging knowledge sharing and best practice
- Ensuring high standards of regulatory and legal compliance
- Supporting the career development and progression of team members
The successful solicitor will inherit an established and varied team comprising an Associate Solicitor, Solicitor, Trainee Solicitor, Paralegal, two Personal Assistants, Customer Relationship Manager and Administration Assistant. They will also become part of the wider management structure, working alongside the firm's partners and other department heads.
Our client is looking for a qualified solicitor with 8+ years' PQE and a strong background in Private Client work. You'll ideally bring:
- Strong technical expertise across estate planning, trusts, tax and probate
- Proven leadership and supervisory experience
- A genuine passion for mentoring and developing others
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- A supportive, approachable leadership style
- Commercial awareness and a proactive approach to business development
- The confidence to contribute at a strategic management level
- STEP qualification, or a willingness to work towards it, is highly desirable
This is an exciting opportunity for a senior Private Client solicitor who is ready to step into a genuine leadership position, develop a talented team and help shape the next stage of an established department's growth.
Head of Private Client in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Clayton Legal
Join a highly regarded Legal 500-ranked law firm in Liverpool, where you will thrive in a collaborative and commercially focused environment. With a strong emphasis on professional development and a supportive team culture, this role offers an excellent opportunity for career progression while managing a diverse caseload of quality residential property matters. Enjoy the benefits of hybrid working, competitive salary, and the chance to build lasting relationships with clients in a firm known for its loyal client base and high-value transactions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Private Client in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨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 Clayton Legal, 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 Head of Private Client in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Clayton Legal, 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 Clayton Legal and the specific role of Head of Private Client. 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 Clayton Legal’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Clayton Legal
✨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 Clayton Legal.
✨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 Clayton Legal.
