We are seeking an accomplished and forward-thinking Private Client Solicitor to lead, reinvigorate, and expand our Private Client Department. This is a real opportunity for the successful candidate to be part of our leadership team, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of the practice. If you have the drive to innovate, mentor and steer the strategic direction of a growing department, we want to hear from you.

About the Role

As Head of Department, you will manage a diverse caseload of Private Client matters, including Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Trusts, Tax advice and Probate. You will also be responsible for motivating, guiding and growing a small team, ensuring high-quality service, and championing efficiency, compliance and best practice. This full-time role (9.00 am to 5.15 pm, Monday to Friday) is predominantly office-based, with occasional home visits.

Key Responsibilities:

• Meeting with existing and potential clients to provide expert advice on all areas of Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Trust matters, Tax advice and Probate.
• Liaising with clients and third parties in a professional and compassionate manner.
• Processing files from start to finish in an effective and timely manner and in line with the company’s policies on file management.
• Opening files and conducting necessary Client Due Diligence and risk management.
• Ensuring clients are updated and advised at appropriate points in their matter.
• Providing support to other fee earners when needed and covering when other fee earners in the department are away.
• Line management responsibility for one fee earner and one assistant.
• Preparing correspondence and documents using in-house software.
• Managing client ledgers and complying with the Solicitors’ Accounts Rules.
• Responsibility for the maintenance of our manual filing systems.
• Closing files following the relevant processes.
• Undertaking any specific training when required to do so and overall to have responsibility toward self-improvement.
• Ensuring confidentiality of all the firm’s and clients’ documentation and information at all times.
• Managing team billing targets.
• Sharing knowledge

Skills & Experience

• A qualified Solicitor with at least 5-7 years PQE in private client work.
• Demonstrable leadership skills and a genuine passion for revitalising and growing the department
• have excellent communication and inter-personal skills.
• possess high levels of speed and accuracy.
• be highly organised, methodical and adaptable.
• have excellent and demonstrable IT skills particularly with the Microsoft Office suite and internet applications. Previous experience of case management software would be an advantage.
• possess excellent time-management and prioritisation skills.
• be able to offer adaptability and flexibility in the working environment.
• have an understanding and knowledge of General Data Protection Regulations.
• have an understanding and knowledge of the Solicitors Accounts Rules in relation to your area of work.

In return we can offer you:

• A chance to join the leadership team and guide the strategic development of the Private Client department
• A friendly and collaborative work environment
• Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
• Pension scheme
• Private medical insurance
• Free parking
• Progression opportunities