At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and grow the Private Client team while managing diverse legal work.
- Company: Mewies Mewies Solicitors, a respected law firm in Skipton with 66 years of experience.
- Benefits: Competitive benefits, career development support, and a focus on wellbeing.
- Other info: Autonomy and influence in a forward-thinking firm with excellent long-term prospects.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a dynamic team and make a lasting impact in a thriving community.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor or Legal Executive with strong Private Client experience.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
About Mewies Mewies Solicitors is a highly regarded, well‑established law firm with a strong reputation across Skipton and the wider North Yorkshire area. The firm is known for the quality of its advice, long‑standing client relationships and has been supporting its clients for 66 years. We are a forward-focused firm and are deliberately investing in our future, strengthening leadership, developing our people and building a sustainable platform for long‑term growth. This role is part of that future.
Why Skipton? Skipton is a thriving market town with a strong sense of community, excellent transport links, independent shops and outstanding countryside nearby. It is consistently recognised as one of the happiest and most desirable places to live.
The Opportunity This is a very exciting role for the right candidate. We are looking to appoint a Head of Department to lead, shape and grow our Private Client team. This is an interesting, varied and high‑quality role, combining:
- Technically engaging Private Client work
- Trusted, long‑term client relationships
- Leadership responsibility
The role is open to:
- An experienced Head of Department, or
- A senior Private Client Solicitor / Legal Executive ready to take the next step into leadership.
The Department The Private Client Department at Mewies is broad, varied and far from routine including:
- Wills of all types, from straightforward instructions to more complex estate planning
- Lasting Powers of Attorney, including advisory work around capacity and family dynamics
- Obtaining Grants of Representation and administering estates of varying size and complexity
- Advising on Inheritance Tax planning, including lifetime trusts, gifting and Deeds of Variation
- Preparation and submission of Inheritance Tax Accounts, including Agricultural and Business Property Reliefs
- Administration of Lifetime and Will Trusts, including Trust Accounts, Tax Returns and restructuring
- Court of Protection Deputyship and ancillary applications
- Advising Attorneys on duties, responsibilities and best practice
This is a role for someone who enjoys variety, complexity and quality, and who values work that is engaging and personally rewarding.
Head of Department Responsibilities Alongside fee‑earning work, you will:
- Lead the Private Client department and shape its future direction
- Build and develop the team, with clear supervision and progression
- Influence how the department operates and grows
- Play an active role in senior leadership discussions
- Contribute to the firm’s wider strategy and future planning
There is real autonomy, trust and influence in this role.
About You You will be:
- A qualified Solicitor or Legal Executive with strong Private Client experience
- Either already in a leadership role or ready to step into one
- Interested in building and shaping a team, not just running files
- Motivated by quality, reputation and long‑term impact
A STEP qualification is preferred but not essential. Support for further STEP study is available. This role offers excellent long‑term prospects and the opportunity to play a meaningful part in the future of a respected and forward‑thinking firm. We are genuinely committed to career development and wellbeing, and offer a range of competitive benefits to support this.
To apply, or for a confidential conversation about the role, please contact the Practice Manager, Adrienne Patterson, at a.patterson@mewiessolicitors.co.uk or 01756 799000.
An experienced Head of Department or a senior Private Client Solicitor / Legal Executive in Skipton employer: Mewies Solicitors Ltd
Mewies Solicitors is an esteemed law firm in Skipton, renowned for its commitment to quality client service and long-term relationships. With a strong focus on employee development and leadership growth, the firm offers a supportive work culture that values autonomy and innovation. Located in one of the happiest towns in the UK, employees enjoy a vibrant community, excellent transport links, and a fulfilling work-life balance, making it an ideal place for meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land An experienced Head of Department or a senior Private Client Solicitor / Legal Executive in Skipton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the legal field, especially those who work at Mewies Mewies Solicitors. Attend local events or join online forums to make those valuable connections that could lead to a job.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare to discuss your experience in Private Client work during interviews. Bring examples of how you've handled complex cases or built strong client relationships to demonstrate your value.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out directly to Mewies Mewies Solicitors and express your interest in the Head of Department role. A personal touch can make all the difference!
✨Tip Number 4
Keep learning! Stay updated on the latest trends in Private Client law and consider pursuing further qualifications like STEP. This shows your commitment to growth and can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace An experienced Head of Department or a senior Private Client Solicitor / Legal Executive in Skipton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Department role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant Private Client work to show us you’re the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our team. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share your successes! Whether it’s growing a team or improving client relationships, we want to see how you’ve made an impact in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly 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 Mewies Solicitors Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your Private Client knowledge. Familiarise yourself with the types of Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, and Inheritance Tax planning. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just a candidate, but a potential leader in the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led teams or projects in the past. Mewies Mewies Solicitors is looking for someone who can shape and grow their Private Client team, so be ready to discuss your vision for leadership and how you plan to develop others.
✨Connect with the Firm's Values
Research Mewies Mewies Solicitors and understand their commitment to quality and long-term client relationships. Be prepared to explain how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their future growth and strategy.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the firm’s direction, the Private Client department's challenges, and opportunities for team development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
