Job Description Private Client Senior Associate Salary: £60,000–£80,000 Location: North Hertfordshire Are you a highly experienced Private Client Solicitor ready to step into a senior leadership role ? Join a prestigious Top UK law firm as a Senior Associate with team management responsibilities, working on high-quality, high-net-worth matters whilst mentoring the next generation of private client lawyers. About Our Client Our client is a Top UK law firm with an extensive network of legal professionals across six offices throughout the region. Our client has evolved from a traditional family practice into a modern, forward-thinking firm whilst maintaining strong community values and commitment to exceptional client service. They serve a diverse and prestigious client base including high-net-worth individuals, businesses, charities, schools, and national corporations. Their vision is clear: to be the firm of choice for exceptional service, quality of life, and responsible business practices. The Opportunity This is an exceptional senior-level role for an ambitious Private Client Solicitor with 8 years PQE ready to take on team management and leadership responsibilities. Due to continued growth and expansion, the Private Client department is seeking a Senior Associate to work on high-quality, high-net-worth matters whilst providing oversight, mentorship, and strategic support to the team. This role offers a clear pathway to partnership within a firm that genuinely invests in developing its senior talent. Key Responsibilities Leadership & Team Management: • Oversee and manage the Private Client team, providing guidance, support, and development • Mentor and advise team members on complex cases, sharing expertise and best practices • Support the Head of Department and Partners with management responsibilities and strategic planning • Contribute to achieving the strategic aims of the firm and department growth Client Management & Legal Excellence: • Provide quality, tailored, and supportive legal service to a wide range of clients, including high-net-worth individuals • Manage a high-quality caseload of complex private client matters including estate administration, succession planning, and trusts • Build and maintain strong client relationships, delivering exceptional service and commercial advice • Handle sophisticated tax planning, trust structures, and complex estate matters Business Development & Strategic Input: • Support business development initiatives and help grow the Private Client department • Achieve fee targets and contribute to the team's commercial success • Enhance the firm's reputation through professional and community activities • Provide strategic input on department direction and client service delivery Essential Requirements Qualifications & Experience: • Qualified Solicitor in England and Wales with 8 years PQE in Private Client law • Proven track record managing complex, high-net-worth private client matters • Demonstrated leadership experience with ability to mentor and develop junior team members • Law degree and LPC completion with two-year training contract (or equivalent qualification route) Technical Skills: • Expert knowledge of estate administration, succession planning, trusts, and tax planning • Advanced understanding of Inheritance Tax, Capital Gains Tax, and complex private client structures • Strong commercial acumen with ability to provide strategic, business-focused advice • Excellent drafting skills for sophisticated private client documentation • Proficiency with case management systems and legal technology Leadership & Personal Attributes: • Commercially astute and strategic thinker capable of offering sound legal advice aligned with clients' needs • Strong leadership and people management skills with ability to inspire and develop teams • Exceptional client care skills with ability to manage high-net-worth client relationships • Excellent communication, organisational, and time management abilities • Collaborative approach with ability to work effectively with partners and senior management Comprehensive Benefits Package Financial Rewards: • Competitive salary of £60,000–£80,000 (dependent on experience) • Discretionary bonus payments based on performance and contribution • Generous pension scheme with employer contributions • Clear pathway to partnership for the right candidate Work-Life Balance: • 37.5 hours per week with flexible working arrangements • Generous annual leave (25 days plus bank holidays) • Birthday day off – your special day matters • Enhanced family-friendly policies including maternity, paternity, and adoption leave Health & Wellbeing: • Permanent health insurance for peace of mind • Comprehensive wellness programmes including gym membership discounts • Mental health support with access to confidential counselling services • Employee Assistance Programme for you and your family Professional Development: • Extensive training and development programmes tailored to senior-level career progression • Leadership development opportunities and management training • CPD support with funded courses, seminars, and qualifications • Partnership pathway with clear progression route for high performers Culture & Environment: • Inclusive, collaborative culture that values diversity and individual contributions • Modern, well-equipped offices in North Hertfordshire with excellent facilities • Social events and team activities throughout the year • Commitment to responsible business practices and community engagement Location & Working Arrangements Office Location: North Hertfordshire – excellent transport links and local amenities Working Pattern: Full-time, permanent position (37.5 hours per week) with flexible working options Career Progression This is a genuine senior leadership role with a clear pathway to partnership. The firm has a strong track record of promoting from within and actively supports Senior Associates in developing towards equity partnership. You'll work closely with partners, gain strategic management experience, and have the opportunity to shape the future direction of a thriving Private Client department. Why This Opportunity Stands Out Senior leadership role with team management and strategic responsibilities Top UK firm with over a century of excellence and stability High-quality, high-net-worth work that will challenge and develop your expertise Clear pathway to partnership with genuine progression opportunities Outstanding benefits including health insurance, wellness support, and discretionary bonuses Genuine work-life balance with 37.5 hours/week and generous leave Supportive, inclusive culture where senior talent is valued and developed Growing department within an expanding, forward-thinking firm Ready to Take the Next Step? If you're an experienced Private Client Solicitor with 8 years PQE ready to step into a senior leadership role with team management responsibilities and a clear pathway to partnership, we'd love to hear from you. For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact: Mara Watson Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions Email: m.watson@h-fts.com Website: https://h-fts.com/ Please include your current CV outlining your interest in the role and leadership experience. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is committed to ethical recruitment practices and will only submit your details to our client with your express written consent.