At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage complex private client cases and advise high-net-worth individuals on estate planning.
- Company: Join a top-ranked Private Wealth team known for its client-first approach.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, private healthcare, and generous leave.
- Other info: Clear progression path to Legal Director and Partner-level roles.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your leadership and client relationship skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor with 7+ years in Private Client work and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 95000 £ per year.
Salary: £75,000 – £95,000 + Bonus
Location: Richmond (Hybrid)
HNW Client Work & Clear Progression Path
Are you a Private Client Solicitor ready to step into a Senior Associate role within a highly regarded, Legal 500 and Chambers-ranked Private Wealth team? This is an opportunity to work closely with high-net-worth individuals on complex, meaningful matters while developing your leadership, client relationship, and business development skills in a supportive, specialist environment. Our client is recognised for delivering exceptional private client advice to HNW individuals and families, with a strong reputation for quality, empathy, and long-term client relationships.
The Role: High-Quality Private Wealth Advisory Work
As a Senior Associate, you will manage a varied and sophisticated caseload, working with high-net-worth clients across the full spectrum of private client services. Key responsibilities include:
- Advising HNW clients on Wills, trusts, estates, and succession planning
- Preparing and advising on Lasting Powers of Attorney
- Handling estate administration, including complex and taxable estates
- Advising on Inheritance Tax (IHT) and Capital Gains Tax (CGT) planning
- Supporting the creation, administration, and winding up of trusts
- Managing your own client relationships as a trusted advisor
- Supervising and mentoring junior lawyers and trainees
- Supporting marketing and business development initiatives
Team & Environment
You will join a highly respected Private Wealth team based in Richmond, known for its technical excellence and client-first approach. The team advises clients with assets typically ranging from £5m–£20m, offering:
- A collaborative, supportive working culture
- Strong emphasis on client care and long-term relationships
- Exposure to complex, high-value private client matters
- A reputation for being empathetic, practical, and solutions-focused
What We’re Looking For
Essential:
- Qualified Solicitor or Legal Executive (England & Wales)
- Minimum 7 years’ experience in Private Client / Private Wealth work
- Strong technical knowledge of:
- Wills and estate planning
- Trusts and estate administration
- IHT and CGT planning
- Lasting Powers of Attorney
Desirable:
- Experience with HNW/UHNW clients
- Interest in business development and networking activities
- Previous supervisory or mentoring experience
Personal attributes:
- Empathetic and professional approach, particularly with sensitive matters
- Strong attention to detail and technical accuracy
- Collaborative, team-focused mindset
- Proactive and commercially aware
Career Progression
- Clear pathway to Legal Director and Partner-level progression
- Opportunity to develop expertise in high-value private wealth planning
- Active involvement in business development and client strategy
- Structured support for leadership and mentoring development
Salary & Benefits
- £75,000 – £95,000 base salary (dependent on experience)
- Performance-related bonus
- Hybrid working (flexible office/home arrangement)
- Private healthcare
- Enhanced pension contributions
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Supportive training and development programme
- Strong emphasis on work-life balance and wellbeing
Location & Working Arrangements
- Richmond-based role
- Hybrid working model with flexible office presence
- Full-time position with openness to alternative working arrangements
Next Steps
To discuss this opportunity in confidence, please contact: David Hawthorne-Finch Email: d.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com Alternatively, apply now for further details and a confidential discussion. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. We will always obtain your express permission before sharing your details with our client.
Senior Associate – Private Client in Richmond employer: Hawthorne-finch Talent Solutions
Contact Detail:
Hawthorne-finch Talent Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Associate – Private Client in Richmond
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who work with high-net-worth clients. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and show off your expertise.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge of wills, trusts, and estate planning. Be ready to discuss your experience managing complex caseloads and how you’ve built strong client relationships.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! If you've mentored junior lawyers or led projects, make sure to highlight these experiences during interviews. Employers love candidates who can support and develop their teams.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way in landing that Senior Associate role.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Associate – Private Client in Richmond
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Associate role. Highlight your experience with HNW clients and your technical knowledge in areas like Wills and estate planning. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Experience: Don’t just list your previous roles; explain how your experience has prepared you for this position. Talk about specific cases or projects where you managed complex matters or mentored junior lawyers. This helps us see your potential impact on our team.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We value empathy and a collaborative mindset, so share examples that demonstrate these traits. Being genuine helps us understand who you are beyond your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hawthorne-finch Talent Solutions
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Wills, trusts, and estate planning. Be ready to discuss specific cases or scenarios you've handled in the past, especially those involving high-net-worth clients. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
Given the sensitive nature of private client work, it’s crucial to demonstrate your empathetic approach during the interview. Share examples of how you've built long-term relationships with clients and navigated complex emotional situations. This will highlight your suitability for a role that requires both technical skill and emotional intelligence.
✨Prepare for Leadership Questions
As a Senior Associate, you'll be expected to mentor junior lawyers. Prepare to discuss your previous supervisory experiences and how you’ve supported others in their development. Think about specific instances where you’ve led a team or contributed to business development initiatives.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with thoughtful questions about the firm’s culture, client base, and future goals. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you assess if the firm aligns with your career aspirations and values.