At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team handling diverse private client matters like wills and trusts.
- Company: Join a well-established regional law firm with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, mentorship opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your leadership skills in a collaborative setting.
- Qualifications: 5+ years of experience in private client law and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Ideal for those seeking long-term career growth and professional development.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
A well-established regional law firm is seeking a Senior Private Client Solicitor, Chartered Legal Executive (FCILEX), or STEP-qualified professional to join its busy and highly regarded Private Client team in Reading. This is a senior position suited to an experienced practitioner with a strong technical background and proven leadership abilities. The role offers a blend of client-facing work, team supervision, and strategic input, with a clear opportunity to contribute to the continued growth and development of the team and wider firm.
The Role
- Handle a broad caseload of private client matters including wills, trusts, estate administration, inheritance tax planning, elderly client matters, lasting powers of attorney, and Court of Protection work.
- Lead a division within the Private Client department, providing supervision and mentorship to junior lawyers, trainees, and support staff.
- Play a key role in business development and maintaining professional relationships with key contacts such as accountants, financial advisers, and care agencies.
- Work closely with senior leadership to drive departmental growth and commercial strategy.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory and quality standards (LEXCEL and ISO).
- Contribute to the firm's strong reputation for client care and practical, high-quality advice.
Candidate Profile
Essential:
- A minimum of 5 years' experience handling a full private client caseload independently.
- Experience supervising and supporting junior team members.
- Strong communication and client care skills, with the ability to build long-lasting professional relationships.
- Commercially minded with a proactive, solution-focused approach.
- Well-organised, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
- Solid understanding of compliance requirements and quality assurance procedures.
Desirable:
- STEP membership or working towards it.
- Membership of The Association of Lifetime Lawyers.
- Experience in marketing and business development initiatives.
Key Skills & Attributes
- Technical expertise across the full spectrum of private client work.
- Strategic thinker with leadership potential.
- Empathetic, personable, and confident in dealing with a wide range of clients.
- Collaborative team player with excellent mentoring and communication skills.
- Strong IT skills and comfort with case management systems.
This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned private client lawyer to step into a senior role with leadership responsibilities, working in a supportive and progressive environment. Applications are welcomed from candidates looking for a long-term career move with scope for continued development.
Private Client Solicitor 5+ PQE - Reading employer: Henderson Scott
Contact Detail:
Henderson Scott Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Private Client Solicitor 5+ PQE - Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the private client sector, especially those who are already working at the firm or similar firms. Attend local legal events or seminars in Reading to make connections and learn more about the firm's culture and values.
✨Tip Number 2
Demonstrate your leadership skills by sharing examples of how you've successfully mentored junior lawyers or led a team in previous roles. This will show that you have the experience needed for the senior position.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and developments in private client law, particularly in areas like estate planning and compliance. Being knowledgeable about current issues will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to business development and how you can contribute to the firm's growth. Think of specific strategies you've implemented in the past that have led to successful client relationships or increased revenue.
We think you need these skills to ace Private Client Solicitor 5+ PQE - Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in private client law, particularly your 5+ years of handling a full caseload. Emphasise any leadership roles or mentoring experiences you've had, as this is crucial for the position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, address how your skills align with the job description. Mention your technical expertise, client care skills, and any experience in business development. Show enthusiasm for contributing to the firm's growth and reputation.
Showcase Your Achievements: Include specific examples of your past successes in private client work, such as complex cases you've managed or initiatives you've led that improved client relationships or departmental efficiency.
Highlight Compliance Knowledge: Since compliance with regulatory standards is essential for this role, make sure to mention your understanding of LEXCEL and ISO requirements. This will demonstrate your readiness to uphold the firm's high standards.
How to prepare for a job interview at Henderson Scott
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience with a broad range of private client matters. Highlight specific cases you've handled, particularly in areas like wills, trusts, and estate administration, to demonstrate your strong technical background.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since this role involves supervising junior lawyers and support staff, be ready to share examples of how you've mentored others in the past. Discuss your approach to leadership and how you foster a collaborative team environment.
✨Emphasise Client Care and Relationship Building
Strong communication skills are essential for this position. Prepare to talk about how you've built and maintained professional relationships with clients and other key contacts, such as accountants and financial advisers.
✨Discuss Your Business Development Experience
This role requires a commercially minded approach. Be ready to discuss any marketing or business development initiatives you've been involved in, and how you can contribute to the firm's growth and strategy.