Head of Private Clients – Leadership Role
Overview:
A well-regarded and progressive law firm is seeking a dynamic and experienced professional to lead its Private Clients Department. This senior position offers the opportunity to shape and grow a key area of the firm, combining legal expertise with strategic and operational leadership. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong technical capability, commercial awareness, and a proactive approach to team management and client service.
Key Responsibilities:
The role comprises both legal/fee-earning duties and departmental leadership responsibilities:
Legal & Fee-Earning Responsibilities
* Provide expert legal advice on estate planning, trust management, and inheritance tax.
* Manage complex estate administration matters, including high-value assets, tax relief claims, and contentious family matters.
* Advise on Court of Protection applications, statutory Wills, and lifetime gifting.
* Lead estate and trust administration cases with strategic oversight on investments, property sales, and distributions.
* Ensure compliance with AML, KYC, and file management standards, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of relevant laws and regulations.
* Build and maintain strong client relationships, with a focus on retention and cross-referral opportunities.
* Contribute to the development of the department through mentoring and collaboration with junior team members.
* Support financial growth by meeting departmental KPIs and revenue targets.
* Participate in firm-wide risk management, marketing, and business development initiatives.
* Supervise legal staff, monitor performance metrics, and support professional development.
Departmental Leadership & Management
* Communicate business plans and targets clearly across the team.
* Lead regular team meetings and performance reviews to drive quality and efficiency.
* Supervise, mentor, and delegate work to junior staff, including trainees and paralegals.
* Conduct appraisals, set objectives, and manage professional development plans.
* Oversee daily operational matters including attendance, holiday scheduling, and resource planning.
* Attend internal review meetings with senior leadership and contribute to strategic discussions.
* Ensure timely and accurate administrative processes including billing, time recording, and invoicing.
Candidate Profile:
* Significant experience in private client work, particularly in estate and trust matters.
* Demonstrated leadership in a legal setting, with a track record of team management and business development.
* Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a client-focused approach.
* Comfortable working independently and collaboratively at a senior level.
This is an excellent opportunity for a senior private client lawyer looking to take a leadership role within a forward-thinking and supportive environment. The position offers scope for influence, professional growth, and meaningful contribution to the firm’s long-term vision.
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