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- Tasks: Manage Wills, Probate, and Estate Administration cases while advising clients on estate planning.
- Company: Established and respected law firm in Greater Belfast with a strong private client base.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, genuine pathway to directorship, and supportive working environment.
- Other info: Long-term opportunity to shape and grow the Private Client department.
- Why this job: Step into a senior role with autonomy and influence in a collaborative team culture.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor with a strong background in Private Client work and ambition for leadership.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
This is a genuinely rare opportunity for an experienced Private Client Solicitor to step into a Director Designate position within a long-established and highly respected firm in Greater Belfast. The role is designed for a solicitor who is already confidently managing their own Wills & Probate caseload (and potentially some Conveyancing work), but who is now looking for the next stage in their career with greater autonomy, influence, and a clear pathway into senior leadership.
We are particularly open to individuals currently working in smaller or regional firms outside Belfast who may have reached a point where progression opportunities are limited, despite strong technical ability and loyal client relationships. This is not a start again move; it is a step up into a more senior, visible position with real long-term prospects.
Key Responsibilities:- Manage a full caseload of Wills, Probate and Estate Administration matters
- Advise clients on wills, trusts, inheritance tax and estate planning
- Oversee probate files from instruction through to completion
- Maintain and develop long-term client relationships
- Play an active role in the growth and direction of the Private Client department
- Support junior colleagues and contribute to a collaborative team culture
- Contribute to business development initiatives and local networking
- Qualified Solicitor (NI qualified or eligible to practise in Northern Ireland)
- Strong background in Wills & Probate / Private Client work
- Confident managing files independently from start to finish
- STEP qualification desirable (or willingness to work towards it)
- Commercial awareness and interest in practice development
- Strong client-facing and communication skills
- Ambition to progress into a senior leadership / director-level role
- Genuine Director Designate pathway with clear progression into senior leadership
- Established, reputable firm with a strong private client base
- Autonomy to manage your own caseload with support where needed
- Competitive salary package, dependent on experience
- Long-term opportunity to shape and grow the Private Client department
- Supportive and stable working environment with strong staff retention
Director / Senior Solicitor - Private Client in Newtownabbey employer: Pathway Careers Ltd
Contact Detail:
Pathway Careers Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director / Senior Solicitor - Private Client in Newtownabbey
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend local legal events and connect with other professionals in the field. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or be looking for someone just like you.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Consider hosting a workshop or writing an article about Wills & Probate topics. This not only positions you as a thought leader but also helps you build valuable connections.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms you admire. A simple email expressing your interest can go a long way. Plus, applying through our website makes it super easy to get your foot in the door!
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to Private Client work. The more confident you are in discussing your experience, the better your chances of landing that Director Designate role!
We think you need these skills to ace Director / Senior Solicitor - Private Client in Newtownabbey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Director Designate role. Highlight your Wills & Probate expertise and any leadership experience to show us you're ready for this step up.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about private client work and how you envision contributing to our firm’s growth. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Client Relationships: We love seeing strong client relationships! In your application, mention how you've maintained and developed these connections in your previous roles. This will demonstrate your ability to fit into our collaborative culture.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pathway Careers Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Wills, Probate, and Estate Administration. Be ready to discuss specific cases you've managed and how you've navigated challenges. This shows you're not just experienced but also confident in your expertise.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Potential
Since this role is about stepping into a Director Designate position, highlight any experience you have in mentoring junior colleagues or leading projects. Talk about how you can contribute to the growth of the Private Client department and your vision for its future.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
Remember, interviews are as much about personality as they are about qualifications. Engage with your interviewers, ask them questions about the firm’s culture, and share your thoughts on how you can fit into their team. A good connection can make all the difference!
✨Prepare for Business Development Questions
Be ready to discuss your ideas for business development and local networking. Think about how you can leverage your existing client relationships and what strategies you might implement to attract new clients. This shows you're proactive and forward-thinking.