Job Title: Head of Real Estate Finance – Senior Solicitor
Location: South Manchester
Experience: 5+ Years PQE
Salary: (DOE) + Bonus + Benefits
Sector: Legal 500 Law Firm
The Opportunity
I’m working with a well-regarded Legal 500 firm in South Manchester, known for its strong commercial and property offering, which is now looking to appoint a Head of Real Estate Finance to lead and grow this specialist area within the wider property team.
This is an outstanding opportunity for a Senior Real Estate Finance Solicitor (5+ PQE) who is ready to step into a leadership role, or for a current department head seeking a new challenge in a firm that offers real autonomy, a supportive structure, and a commitment to long-term investment in its people.
You’ll be joining a progressive, full-service commercial law firm with a modern and collaborative culture. The firm works with a high-quality client base, including property developers, investors, private lenders, bridging finance companies, and institutional funders.
The Role
As Head of Real Estate Finance, you will:
1. Lead on complex secured lending and finance matters across commercial and residential property transactions
2. Act as a trusted advisor to lender clients, bridging financiers, developers, and borrowers
3. Manage and grow a team of junior solicitors and support staff within the department
4. Collaborate closely with the commercial property and corporate teams on joint transactions
5. Drive business development activity and maintain key client relationships
6. Shape and develop internal processes to ensure continued efficiency and regulatory compliance
The Ideal Candidate
7. A qualified Solicitor in England & Wales with 5+ years PQE in real estate finance
8. Experience acting for lenders, borrowers, or both on secured lending matters
9. Strong technical understanding of loan agreements, security documents, title, and due diligence
10. A track record of managing client relationships and mentoring junior lawyers
11. Commercial mindset with a proactive approach to growth and business development
12. Previous management or leadership experience would be a strong advantage but isn’t essential
What’s On Offer
13. Competitive salary package
14. Discretionary bonus scheme
15. Genuine Head of Department position with scope to shape and grow the team
16. Flexible/hybrid working arrangements
17. Excellent support and autonomy in a non-hierarchical, forward-thinking firm
18. Free parking and modern offices in a desirable South Manchester location
How to Apply
If you’re a Senior Solicitor ready to lead your own department or an experienced Head of Real Estate Finance looking for a fresh challenge in a Legal 500 environment, I’d love to speak with you.
For a confidential discussion, contact:
Millie Ebbrell @ Simpson Judge