Head of Department – Private Client
Location: Newcastle
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full-time
Salary: Competitive (depending on experience) + Bonus + Benefits
We are seeking a candidate who will lead and manage a well-resourced Private Client department, delivering high-quality legal advice while shaping the future direction of the team and contributing to the wider management strategy of the firm.
Key Responsibilities
* Leading and managing the Private Client Department, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team culture
* Providing expert legal advice across a varied private client caseload, including:
o Wills
o Probate and estate administration
o Trusts
o Estate planning
o Inheritance tax and succession planning
* Supervising, mentoring, and supporting fee earners at all levels, including solicitors, trainees, and paralegals
* Developing and implementing departmental strategy aligned with the firm’s overall business objectives
* Conducting regular file reviews to ensure compliance, quality, and best practice
* Driving business development and networking initiatives to grow the department and client base
* Managing departmental performance, including billing, WIP, and financial targets
* Ensuring compliance with all regulatory, legal, and firm-wide policies
About You
* Qualified Solicitor with 8+ years’ PQE in Private Client work
* Strong technical expertise across wills, trusts, probate, estate planning, and tax matters
* Proven leadership and supervisory experience within a Private Client team
* Commercially aware with a proactive approach to business development
* Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with an approachable leadership style
* STEP qualification (or working towards) is highly desirable
* Committed to developing talent and maintaining exceptional client service standards
What’s on Offer
* Competitive salary with performance-related bonus
* Senior leadership role with genuine influence over departmental strategy
* Supportive and collaborative working environment
* Well-resourced team structure to enable focus on leadership and client work
* Opportunity to shape and grow a successful Private Client department within a respected firm
If this vacancy is of interest, Please apply direct or call the office on 0191 255 7977