Head of Corporate/Commercial Department (8PQE+)
Location: Stroud or Gloucester (hybrid/flexible working available)
Role Overview
A well-established and progressive regional law firm is seeking an exceptional Head of Corporate/Commercial to lead and develop its growing department. This opportunity will particularly appeal to a senior lawyer looking for a fresh challenge, greater strategic influence, and the chance to shape a practice area with real autonomy.
The role offers an alternative to traditional partnership structures for those wanting to step away from fee-earning alone and into a position where leadership, direction-setting and longer-term impact are central. As a Board-backed department head, you will influence firm-wide strategy, mentor future talent and play a key role in the continued expansion of the firm’s corporate and commercial offering.
For an accomplished corporate/commercial solicitor who feels ready for broader responsibility, renewed challenge and the ability to leave a lasting legacy, this role represents a compelling next step.
Key Responsibilities
Departmental Leadership & Strategy
* Setting and delivering the strategic vision for the Corporate/Commercial department in line with wider firm objectives.
* Leading, motivating and developing a team of lawyers and support staff.
* Establishing effective workflows, quality controls and compliance standards.
Client Advisory & Complex Work
* Managing a high-quality caseload including M&A, shareholder agreements, corporate governance, commercial contracts, restructurings and joint ventures.
* Acting as a trusted advisor to SMEs, owner-managed businesses and high-value commercial clients.
* Maintaining hands‑on involvement in complex matters while balancing leadership responsibilities.
Business Development & Profile Building
* Developing new client relationships and strengthening existing ones to drive sustainable growth.
* Representing the department externally through networking, referrals and profile‑raising activity.
* Playing a central role in shaping and delivering firm‑wide growth initiatives.
People Development & Mentoring
* Supervising and mentoring junior lawyers, supporting progression and long‑term retention.
* Building a collaborative, high‑performing departmental culture with a clear sense of direction.
The Ideal Candidate
* Significant PQE (ideally 8+ years) with a strong mix of both corporate and commercial work.
* A senior lawyer who is motivated by influence, leadership and departmental ownership rather than title alone.
* Experience handling complex, high‑value matters with a commercial, pragmatic approach.
* A track record of developing client relationships and contributing to business growth.
* Prior experience supervising or mentoring lawyers.
* Strategic, confident and personable, with the appetite to drive change and take ownership of outcomes.
Working Arrangement & Package
* Role based in Stroud or Gloucester, with hybrid and flexible working available, particularly for candidates bringing strong and relevant experience.
* Salary will be bespoke, aligned to individual expectations and experience.
* A comprehensive benefits package and genuine scope to influence direction, culture and long‑term success.
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