Private Client Legal Director
BBBH55788_1747821169
Legal Director | Private Client Advisory | Bristol
The Firm:
A full-service, UK Top 50 law firm with a heritage spanning 160 years, employing over 700 legal professionals across its offices in Cambridge, Chelmsford, Ipswich, London, Norwich, Sevenoaks, and soon in Bristol. Following the successful launch of a Southwest hub in 2021, the firm is now expanding with a full-service presence in Bristol, providing both business and private client services to clients in the region, the UK, and internationally.
With a strong focus on Diversity, Sustainability, and Community Engagement, the firm is proud to have female partners comprising 40% of its partnership and supports ESG goals across all operations. The firm is renowned for its culture of collaboration, offering a rewarding, inclusive environment for professional growth and career development.
The Department:
The Private Client Advisory Team comprises over 60 specialist lawyers, including 15 partners. The team provides expert advice on a wide range of issues, including tax, succession planning, trust and estate administration, wills, and mitigating tax liabilities for high-net-worth individuals, families, and owner-managed businesses.
Working closely with the Agricultural Team, the department also advises farming families and landed estates on succession and tax planning. This role represents a fantastic opportunity to join a rapidly expanding team in Bristol, focusing on the growth of the office while delivering exceptional client service.
The Role:
The firm is seeking an experienced Legal Director to join the Private Client Advisory Team in Bristol. The successful candidate will play a vital role in providing expert legal advice to high-net-worth clients, managing a portfolio of clients, and contributing to the overall growth of the firm's Bristol office.
As Legal Director, you will:
1. Provide high-quality legal advice on succession planning, tax advice, wills, estate administration, and other areas of private client law.
2. Manage and grow relationships with high-net-worth clients, identifying opportunities for cross-selling and expanding services.
3. Lead and mentor a team of junior lawyers, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment while ensuring efficient service delivery.
4. Contribute to the development and execution of the firm's strategic growth plan in Bristol.
5. Participate in business development activities, such as networking, attending conferences, and drafting sector-relevant publications.
6. Lead efforts to establish and grow the firm's presence in the region, leveraging local networks and industry contacts.
Who You Are:
The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated, client-focused lawyer with 8+ years' PQE and experience advising high-net-worth clients across a variety of private client advisory areas. You will have a proven track record of business development and establishing a strong market presence, with a particular interest in growing the Bristol office.
Key Skills & Experience:
7. 8+ years' PQE in private client advisory law, ideally within a leading regional, national, or city law firm.
8. Expertise in succession planning, tax advice, trust and estate administration, wills, and estate management.
9. Proven experience in client relationship management and business development.
10. Strong leadership abilities, with experience managing and mentoring junior lawyers.
11. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build long-lasting client relationships.
12. Entrepreneurial mindset, with the ability to thrive in a dynamic, growing environment.
Why Join This Team?
This is a unique opportunity to be part of a founding team in a new office in Bristol, contributing to the firm's expansion while working on complex, high-value private client matters. The firm is committed to professional development, offering a range of benefits and a flexible, supportive work culture that encourages collaboration and personal growth.
Benefits Include:
13. 30 days holiday (FTE) plus Bank Holidays.
14. Long Service Award: 1 additional week every 10 years of continuous service.
15. Private Healthcare (via BUPA after probation).
16. Pension Scheme (5% employer/5% employee).
17. Life Assurance (4x salary), Permanent Health Insurance.
18. Subsidised gym membership.
19. Agile working policy and Dress for Your Day policy.
20. Electric car scheme and enhanced maternity/paternity leave.
21. Paid ESG Day (Environmental, Social, and Governance).
Equal Opportunities:
The firm is committed to equality, ensuring that every candidate is treated fairly and based on merit. We offer a diverse and inclusive environment and value applicants from all backgrounds.
What Next?