Head of Housing Disrepair (HDR)
Location: Manchester or London office
About the firm
A self-funding law firm on a mission to transform the way legal disputes are resolved. Their focus is on consumer and small business legal claims, with plans to expand into SME claims.
By combining technology, AI, automation, and standardisation, they’re streamlining dispute resolution to make processes faster, simpler, and more efficient.
Their approach is unique: originate, oversee, finance, and insure claims in-house, reducing complexity and ensuring clients receive the best possible service.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Head of Housing Disrepair (HDR) to lead and grow our Housing Disrepair department. This is a senior leadership role, ideal for someone with strong litigation expertise, proven team management skills, and a passion for driving innovation in legal services.
Key Responsibilities
Team Leadership & Supervision
* Lead the Housing Disrepair practice, ensuring excellent client service.
* Manage your own caseload while supervising a team of 3–5 fee earners.
* Review case files regularly, offering advice, support, and constructive feedback.
* Recruit, mentor, and develop the team for long-term success.
Case Management & Litigation
* Handle Housing Disrepair cases from initial instruction to settlement, including both pre-litigated and litigated matters.
* Draft and review legal documents, letters, and processes to ensure consistency.
* Manage complex cases, including small claims, fast track, and multi-track matters.
Process Improvement & Quality Control
* Audit case files to ensure compliance with company standards.
* Identify areas for improvement and recommend changes to Partners and team members.
* Keep the team updated on relevant legal developments and adapt processes accordingly.
Data & Reporting
* Provide detailed data and case statistics to Senior Management when required.
* Monitor team performance, reporting on productivity, case progress, and outcomes.
Collaboration & Client Care
* Liaise with witnesses, surveyors, experts, and other external parties to support claims.
* Maintain strong client relationships through clear, timely communication.
Strategic Growth
* Contribute to the long-term strategy and growth of the Housing Disrepair department.
* Actively identify opportunities to improve efficiency and raise quality standards.
What We’re Looking For
Experience
* Qualified Solicitor or FCILEX.
* At least 5 years’ litigation experience, including complex case management.
* Strong background in Housing Disrepair law, covering both pre-litigated and litigated matters.
* Previous experience leading and supervising a legal team.
Skills & Expertise
* Excellent knowledge of housing disrepair law and procedures.
* Strong drafting, verbal, and written communication skills.
* Ability to provide strategic advice and solutions in complex cases.
* Proactive, organised, and confident managing multiple priorities.
* Comfortable using technology and eager to find innovative ways to apply it in legal processes.
Why Join?
This is an exciting opportunity to lead a growing department in a forward-thinking law firm that embraces innovation. You’ll have the chance to shape processes, build a team, and play a key role in the firm’s expansion—all while working in a supportive and dynamic environment.