Senior Corporate Lawyer
Salary: 60,000 – 80,000 (dependent on experience, PQE, and leadership readiness)
Location: Keighley Area, Yorkshire
Are you ready to step into a leadership role with a clear succession plan? This is your opportunity to become Head of Department within an established Yorkshire law firm.
About the Firm
Our client is a well‑established Yorkshire‑based law firm with a rich heritage and a diverse client portfolio spanning Industry, Manufacturing, and Commercial sectors.
Why This Role Stands Out
* Clear succession plan leading to Head of Department
* Leadership from Day One – manage a varied corporate caseload while mentoring junior team members
* Genuine flexibility – option to establish a new satellite office
* Strong platform – join a department with loyal clients and a reputation built over many years
Key Responsibilities
* Manage a high‑quality caseload of corporate and commercial matters independently (company formations, share sales & purchases, commercial contracts, shareholder agreements, business restructures)
* Advise clients across Industry, Manufacturing, and Commercial sectors on a broad range of transactions
* Mentor and supervise junior lawyers (NQ solicitor and apprentice)
* Build and nurture client relationships, acting as a trusted adviser
* Contribute to business development through networking and thought leadership
* Play a key role in succession planning and prepare for Head of Department responsibilities
* Be office‑based 3 days per week to provide hands‑on mentorship and team development
* Shape the strategic direction of the corporate department in collaboration with firm leadership
Essential Requirements
* Qualified Solicitor with 5 years PQE in Corporate & Commercial Law
* Strong technical expertise in corporate transactions (company formations, share sales/purchases, M&A, commercial contracts, shareholder agreements, business restructures)
* Proven track record managing a varied corporate caseload independently with minimal supervision
* Experience mentoring and developing junior lawyers or trainees
* Excellent client relationship management and communication skills
* Commercial awareness and a pragmatic, solutions‑focused approach
* Leadership ambition with genuine interest in progressing to Head of Department
* Commitment to hybrid working (3 days office‑based, 2 days flexible)
* Base in, or willingness to relocate to, Keighley or surrounding Yorkshire areas
Highly Desirable
* Sector experience with Industry, Manufacturing, or Commercial clients
* Demonstrated business development success in corporate law
* Experience in succession planning or departmental leadership roles
* Track record of team development and building high‑performing legal teams
* Strong negotiation skills and experience handling complex transactions
* Involvement in strategic planning or departmental management
Benefits
* Competitive salary with scope for performance‑based increases and progression
* Clear succession pathway to Head of Corporate Department
* Leadership responsibilities from day one, mentorship and strategic input
* Partnership potential as the department and your role develop
* Full support for professional development and leadership training
* Autonomy to shape the department’s future direction and growth strategy
* Hybrid working model (3 days office‑based, 2 days flexible)
* Flexible office location based in Keighley with option to establish a satellite office
* Modern working environment with supportive infrastructure
* Established client base with strong relationships and loyal clients
* Junior team support (NQ solicitor and apprentice) to assist with caseload
* Strong firm reputation and client trust
* Diverse client base (Industry, Manufacturing, Commercial) across Yorkshire
* CPD and training support – ongoing professional development and leadership training
* Competitive pension scheme with employer contributions
* 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
* Professional subscriptions covered (Law Society & SRA fees)
* Parking available at office location
* Supportive collaborative culture within an established firm
Working Arrangements
Hybrid working model: 3 days office‑based, 2 days flexible (home or alternative location). Flexible office location based in Keighley with option to establish a satellite office.
Contact
For a confidential discussion about this succession planning opportunity, please contact:
Lee Hawthorne‑Finch
Hawthorne‑Finch Talent Solutions
Email: [contact email]
Phone: [contact phone]
All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. We provide full transparency throughout the recruitment process and all candidates are contacted only with written consent.
About Hawthorne‑Finch Talent Solutions
We are an independent recruitment agency specialising in legal and accountancy recruitment across the UK. We pride ourselves on ethical practices, transparency, and personalised service. We provide comprehensive support including CV reviews, interview preparation, and career coaching throughout the recruitment process.
Our commitment: We prioritise candidate alignment over quick placements, ensuring the right fit for both candidate and client.
Additional Information
Employment Type: Full‑Time
Experience: 5 years
Vacancy: 1
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