Job Description
Location: Greater Manchester (office-based)
Position: Full-time, Permanent
Salary: Competitive + Performance Incentives
Are you an experienced solicitor ready to lead a traditional law firm into its next chapter?
We are seeking a Lead Solicitor to manage and grow a long-established Greater Manchester law firm, founded in the 1700s, now entering a new phase under corporate ownership. This is a hands-on, office-based role, overseeing a small team and delivering core legal services to a loyal client base.
The firm will operate as a conventional high-street practice, with a focus on:
* Wills, probate and estate administration
* Civil litigation, including:
* Contract disputes
* Property disputes
* Debt recovery
* Inheritance and probate disputes
* Injunctions and protective orders
* Professional negligence claims
* Employment disputes
While there are plans for measured modernisation and rebranding, this role will suit someone who values traditional legal practice, strong client relationships, and a hands on approach.
About the Role
As Lead Solicitor, you will:
* Take over from the retiring principal solicitor, ensuring a smooth transition and continuity of client service
* Be present in the office to manage and support a small legal and administrative team daily
* Lead the firm’s core practice areas (wills, probate, and civil litigation)
* Oversee day-to-day legal operations, compliance, and client care
* Introduce improvements to systems and processes while preserving the firm’s established approach
* Contribute to the firm’s rebrand and strategic development, supported by the wider group
What We’re Looking For
You will ideally have:
* 7+ years’ PQE, ideally with experience in a traditional law firm setting
* Strong capability in wills, probate, and estate administration
* Experience in or willingness to lead civil litigation matters as listed above
* Proven experience managing or supervising a small team
* Practical leadership style suited to an established firm and client base
* Willingness to work primarily from the office
Why Join Us?
* Lead a historic firm with an established reputation and loyal client base
* Hands-on leadership role without the financial risk of ownership
* Support from a wider group providing operational, compliance, and strategic backing
* Competitive salary with performance-linked incentives
Ready to take the lead in a traditional practice with a secure future?
If you’re a solicitor who enjoys running a firm, mentoring a team, and delivering high-quality client service in a conventional legal environment, we’d love to hear from you. Please apply with your CV and a short cover letter.