At a Glance
- Tasks: Build and lead a corporate law function, developing relationships and converting them into corporate work.
- Company: Dynamic financial services business with a loyal client base.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £130k–£150k, sensible hours, and strategic focus.
- Why this job: Shape the future of corporate law with genuine influence and a ready-made audience.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Corporate Partner, Legal Director, or senior associate ready for a step up.
- Other info: Opportunity to shape the team and corporate offering in a grown-up culture.
The predicted salary is between 130000 - 150000 £ per year.
This is a rare chance to build a corporate offering with a ready-made audience. The role is brand new, created to establish and grow a corporate law capability within a financial services business with a large, loyal and existing client base. In reality, it feels much more like an in-house role than a traditional private practice position. The clients are already there. The job is to turn relationships into a proper, structured corporate advisory proposition.
It suits someone senior who enjoys shaping things, not just running them. The appeal here is obvious. The package sits around £130k–£150k. The role has genuine influence over direction and strategy. You are working with a captive client base rather than building everything from cold. The hours are sensible, the culture is grown-up, and the focus is strategic rather than relentless billing.
Over time, there is scope to shape the team and the wider corporate offering. The role is about building and leading a corporate law function, developing relationships with an existing financial services client base and converting that into a steady pipeline of corporate work. You will act as the senior corporate voice internally and externally, advising on M&A, investments, reorganisations and strategic transactions. You will also help shape future hiring and the longer-term growth plan.
It would suit an established Corporate Partner, Legal Director or a very senior Senior Associate who is ready for a step up. Someone commercially minded, comfortable building relationships, and happy operating in a space that blends private practice and in-house. You will need to enjoy working closely with non-lawyer professionals and senior stakeholders, and want real influence rather than just a title.
Head of Corporate in Manchester employer: Douglas Scott Legal Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Douglas Scott Legal Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Corporate in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the corporate law space and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on roles that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of M&A, investments, and strategic transactions. Show us you can not only talk the talk but also walk the walk when it comes to building relationships with clients.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that align with your values and where you can genuinely see yourself making an impact. Check out our website for roles that fit your skills and ambitions perfectly!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Plus, it shows us you're genuinely interested in the role and the company.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Corporate in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Strategic Side: When writing your application, make sure to highlight your strategic thinking and how you've shaped corporate offerings in the past. We want to see how you can turn existing relationships into a structured advisory proposition.
Tailor Your Experience: Don’t just list your previous roles; connect your experience directly to the job description. We’re looking for someone who’s not only an established Corporate Partner or Legal Director but also someone who understands the blend of private practice and in-house work.
Demonstrate Relationship Building: Since this role is all about developing relationships with clients, share specific examples of how you've successfully built and maintained client relationships. We want to know how you can convert those connections into a steady pipeline of corporate work.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Douglas Scott Legal Recruitment
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, take some time to research the financial services business and its existing client base. Understanding their needs and how your corporate law expertise can enhance their offerings will show that you're not just a candidate, but a potential partner in their growth.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
This role is all about shaping and leading a corporate law function. Be prepared to discuss your vision for developing relationships and converting them into a structured advisory proposition. Share specific examples from your past where you've successfully influenced strategy or built teams.
✨Emphasise Relationship Building
Since the job involves working closely with non-lawyer professionals and senior stakeholders, highlight your experience in building and maintaining strong relationships. Prepare anecdotes that demonstrate your ability to connect with clients and colleagues alike, showcasing your commercial mindset.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the company’s direction. Inquire about their current corporate offerings and how they envision the new role evolving. This shows your genuine interest and strategic thinking.