Job Description
Take the lead in shaping a Corporate Law department at a nationally recognised firm.
An award-winning UK law firm is seeking a strategic, driven Head of Corporate Law (8+ PQE) to lead its Corporate Department. This is a pivotal role for an experienced solicitor with a passion for both high-calibre legal work and team leadership. Youll join the firms senior leadership team, playing a central part in shaping business growth while mentoring a high-performing legal team.
About the Role
Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will oversee the strategic development and day-to-day performance of the Corporate Law department. This includes team leadership, supervision of complex casework, and development of your own portfolio of clients. The role is ideal for someone who is both commercially astute and people-focused, capable of delivering top-tier service while nurturing talent and driving results.
Key Responsibilities:
Team Leadership & Management
* Lead and support a team of corporate solicitors and paralegals
* Oversee complex casework, ensuring legal excellence and compliance
* Conduct regular team meetings and 1:1s, promote collaboration, and drive a positive culture
* Recruit, mentor, and retain top legal talent
Client Management & Fee-Earning
* Manage a portfolio of high-value corporate clients, providing expert advice across M&A, restructures, JVs, shareholder agreements, and contracts
* Serve as principal advisor on high-risk and strategic matters
* Ensure consistent billing practices and monitor financial performance of the department
* Maintain exceptional levels of service and professionalism
Strategic Development & Compliance
* Contribute to the firms growth strategy and lead on corporate legal service expansion
* Ensure full compliance with SRA regulations and internal policies
* Monitor legal trends and maintain up-to-date industry knowledge
Business Development
* Drive business development initiatives with the Commercial Director
* Represent the firm at events and develop a strong network of existing and prospective clients
* Ensure prompt and professional handling of all new enquiries
Role Requirements:
* Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales) with a valid practising certificate
* Minimum 8+ years PQE in corporate law with proven leadership experience
* Deep understanding of corporate law including M&A, governance, and commercial contracts
* Strong communication and negotiation skills at board/shareholder level
* Demonstrable success in business development and strategic planning
* Inspirational leadership and mentoring skills
* Excellent organisation and time management; able to handle competing priorities
* Proficiency in legal practice management systems and Microsoft Office
Key Values for Success:
As Head of Corporate Law, you will exemplify the firms values of:
* Empathy Tailoring legal solutions that resonate with each clients unique needs
* Tenacity Relentlessly pursuing the best results for clients and the business
* Adaptability Collaborating across legal teams to meet evolving client needs
* Excellence Driving continuous improvement and delivering outstanding outcomes
* Integrity Acting with transparency and trust at all times
* Accountability Owning your performance as a leader and fee earner
* Communication Influencing and leading with clarity, conviction, and purpose
Benefits Package Includes:
* Up to 10% annual performance bonus
* Private healthcare package: 24/7 GP access, dental, optical, physiotherapy support
* Annual eye and hearing tests
* Death in service benefit (4x salary)
* Company pension scheme
* Pet insurance (cats and dogs)
* Access to a confidential counselling service
* Monthly office massages, PureGym membership, annual flu jab
* 5 days paid sick leave per year (on up to 2 occasions)
* Birthday off work
* Social perks: Netflix, Spotify, Amazon Prime, Apple News+
* Free conveyancing for employees
Why apply through Goldfinch & Partners?
At Goldfinch & Partners, we dont just match CVs with vacancies we build long-term careers. As the leading Legal Recruitment Company in the UK, we partner with forward-thinking firms who offer real progression, support, and balance. Every search we undertake starts from scratch no databases, no generic introductions. We get to know you and introduce you with care, discretion, and professionalism. Our approach includes:
* Candidate Profiles (not just CVs) so youre truly represented
* Psychometric Testing and Career Planning to help you grow strategically
* Onboarding and Probation Support we dont stop at placement
* Exclusivity Agreements with Firms reducing candidate competition and enhancing your visibility
Choose Goldfinch & Partners to represent you your legal career deserves a partner, not a middleman.
Apply with Confidence
If you are ready to lead with impact and want to be represented by a recruitment partner who understands your value, apply today via Goldfinch & Partners. We offer full discretion, in-depth support, and a truly personal approach.
Lets shape your future together.
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