Job Description
Job Title: Head of Dispute ResolutionSalary: up to £85,000
Overview:
We are seeking a commercially astute and strategically minded solicitor to lead our Dispute Resolution Department. With expertise spanning both contentious and non-contentious work, the Head of Dispute Resolution will oversee a wide variety of legal services including commercial litigation, contract disputes, and corporate advisory matters. This senior role combines leadership, technical excellence, client relationship development, and business growth responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Departmental Oversight
* Lead, supervise, and develop a high-performing Dispute Resolution team.
* Manage workflow allocation, staff supervision, and performance reviews.
* Cultivate a supportive, professional culture with an emphasis on quality, efficiency, and client care.
* Drive cross-departmental collaboration,
* Contribute to firmwide strategic planning as a key member of the leadership team.
Legal Expertise & Casework
* Handle a broad range of litigation and advisory matters, including:
o Contractual and commercial disputes
o Shareholder and partnership disputes
o Professional negligence
o Construction and engineering disputes
o Contentious probate and trust matters
o Property litigation
Client Relationship Management
* Maintain and develop strong relationships with new and existing clients.
* Provide clear, pragmatic advice and high levels of personal service.
* Uphold the firm’s reputation for responsiveness, quality, and trusted legal guidance.
Compliance, Risk & Best Practice
* Ensure compliance with SRA Code of Conduct, AML regulations, and firm policies.
* Conduct regular file reviews and supervise case progression and risk assessments.
* Support CQS, Lexcel, and other professional accreditation processes as needed.
Business Development & Marketing
* Actively contribute to the firm’s business development strategy.
* Develop new streams of work through networking, client recommendations, and thought leadership.
* Engage in speaking, writing, and professional association activities (e.g. ACTAPS, PNLA).
Financial Management
* Monitor and report on departmental budgets, WIP, and billing targets.
* Support pricing strategies and cost estimates.
* Lead on initiatives to improve profitability, client retention, and matter efficiency.
Qualifications and Experience:
* Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales), with at least 10+ years’ PQE.
* Strong track record in both contentious and non-contentious commercial work.
* Prior leadership or team management experience within a law firm environment.