Head of Commercial Litigation | Essex
Salary: Competitive DOE + Benefits
Location: Essex
Position: Full-Time, Permanent
Our client, a highly regarded Essex law firm, is seeking an experienced Commercial Litigation Solicitor to lead and develop its Dispute Resolution department.
This is an excellent opportunity for a senior litigation lawyer or existing Head of Department looking to join a progressive firm and play a key role in its continued growth. The successful candidate will oversee the department, manage a high-quality caseload, drive business development, and mentor junior team members.
The Role
The successful candidate will handle a broad range of commercial litigation matters, including:
* Contract disputes
* Shareholder and partnership disputes
* Debt recovery
* Professional negligence claims
* Commercial property disputes
* Director and business disputes
* Contentious insolvency matters
* Injunctive relief applications
* Landlord and tenant disputes
* High-value and complex commercial claims
The role will involve managing matters from instruction through to resolution, including negotiation, mediation, ADR, and court proceedings where required.
Key Responsibilities
* Leading and managing the Commercial Litigation department.
* Managing a complex caseload of commercial disputes.
* Providing strategic and commercially focused legal advice.
* Supervising and mentoring junior solicitors and support staff.
* Developing and maintaining strong client relationships.
* Identifying and securing new business opportunities.
* Supporting departmental growth and profitability.
* Ensuring compliance with SRA regulations and internal procedures.
* Working collaboratively with colleagues to maximise cross-referral opportunities.
Requirements
* Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales.
* Ideally 8+ years' PQE in Commercial Litigation.
* Strong experience handling a broad range of commercial disputes.
* Previous leadership or supervisory experience.
* Proven business development and networking skills.
* Excellent communication, negotiation, and client management abilities.
* Commercially minded with a strategic approach to litigation.
* Ability to manage complex matters independently.
The Opportunity
* Leadership role within a respected and growing firm.
* Opportunity to shape and develop the department.
* High-quality work and established client base.
* Genuine autonomy and responsibility.
* Supportive and collaborative working environment.
* Excellent career progression prospects.
* Competitive salary and benefits package.
This role would suit an ambitious senior Commercial Litigation Solicitor seeking a leadership position with the opportunity to make a significant impact on the future growth and success of the department.
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