At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop the Private Client department, managing complex legal cases.
- Company: A top-ranked law firm known for its supportive and inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Flexible working, competitive salary, 25 days leave, and health cashback plan.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a growing department while enjoying a great work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor with 8 years PQE in private client work and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Pathway to partnership in a dynamic and ambitious environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
A highly regarded, long established law firm is seeking an ambitious and experienced Solicitor to lead and develop its Private Client offering. The firm is consistently recognised by both Legal 500 and Chambers and is also named in The Times Best Law Firms to Work For, reflecting a supportive, inclusive and forward thinking culture. This is a senior leadership opportunity for a private client specialist with strong technical expertise, commercial awareness and the drive to grow and shape a department.
The successful candidate will take responsibility for leading the firm’s Probate Department and developing its Court of Protection services. Currently comprising two solicitors, the department is well positioned for growth and requires a Head of Department with the vision and energy to take it to the next stage. You will manage a varied and complex caseload while providing strategic leadership, mentoring the team and playing a key role in the firm’s wider business development strategy.
- Key responsibilities
- Department leadership
- Providing strategic direction for the Probate Department and Court of Protection services
- Mentoring, supervising and developing junior solicitors and support staff
- Creating and implementing a business plan to support departmental growth
- Contributing to firm wide business development and marketing initiatives
- Managing a full caseload of probate, estate administration, wills, trusts and Court of Protection matters
- Advising on complex estates, tax planning and deputyship applications
- Handling contentious probate and deputyship matters where required
- Building and maintaining strong client relationships
- Ensuring consistently high standards of client care and regulatory compliance
- Identifying and pursuing opportunities to grow the department’s client base
- Networking with referrers and representing the firm at events
About you
- Qualified Solicitor in England and Wales with 8 years PQE in private client work, including probate, estate administration and Court of Protection matters
- Proven experience managing a team or department
- STEP qualification preferred, or working towards
- Experience in contentious probate matters
- Strong leadership skills with a collaborative management style
- Commercially minded with a proactive approach to business development
- Excellent communication skills and a high level of attention to detail
What’s on offer
- A senior leadership role within a supportive and ambitious firm
- A clear and genuine pathway to partnership
- Flexible working arrangements and a strong work life balance culture
- Competitive salary, dependent on experience
- 25 days annual leave
- Pension scheme
- Health cashback plan
Private Client Head of Department in London employer: qed legal
Contact Detail:
qed legal Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Private Client Head of Department in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and connect with people in the private client sector. The more you engage, the more opportunities will come your way.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Consider writing articles or giving talks about probate and estate administration. This not only positions you as a thought leader but also gets your name out there in the legal community.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms you admire. A simple email expressing your interest can open doors. Plus, applying through our website gives you a direct line to us!
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by researching the firm’s recent cases and their approach to client care. Tailor your answers to reflect their values and show how you can contribute to their growth.
We think you need these skills to ace Private Client Head of Department in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant qualifications, like your STEP qualification, to show us you’re the right fit for the role.
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 your vision aligns with our firm’s goals. Don’t forget to mention your approach to business development and team management.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on your achievements rather than just responsibilities. Share specific examples of how you’ve successfully led teams or grown departments in the past – we love to see results!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. 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 during the process.
How to prepare for a job interview at qed legal
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of probate, estate administration, and Court of Protection matters. Be ready to discuss your experience in these areas and how it aligns with the firm's needs. They’ll want to see that you have a solid grasp of the technical aspects and can handle complex cases.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Since this is a Head of Department role, be prepared to talk about your leadership style and past experiences managing teams. Think of specific examples where you've mentored junior solicitors or led a department through change. Highlight your collaborative approach and how you foster a supportive environment.
✨Business Development Mindset
This firm is looking for someone who can grow their Private Client offering. Come armed with ideas on how you would develop the department and attract new clients. Discuss any previous successes in business development and how you plan to contribute to the firm's marketing initiatives.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about the firm’s culture and future plans. Demonstrating your interest in their values and showing that you’re a good fit for their team will go a long way in making a positive impression.