Head of Corporate/Commercial Department (8PQE+)
Location: Stroud or Gloucester (hybrid/flexible working available)
Role Overview
A well-established and progressive regional law firm is seeking an exceptional Head of Corporate/Commercial to lead and develop its growing department. This opportunity will particularly appeal to a senior lawyer looking for a fresh challenge, greater strategic influence, and the chance to shape a practice area with real autonomy.
The role offers an alternative to traditional partnership structures for those wanting to step away from fee-earning alone and into a position where leadership, direction-setting and longer-term impact are central. As a Board-backed department head, you will influence firm-wide strategy, mentor future talent and play a key role in the continued expansion of the firm's corporate and commercial offering.
For an accomplished corporate/commercial solicitor who feels ready for broader responsibility, renewed challenge and the ability to leave a lasting legacy, this role represents a compelling next step.
Key Responsibilities:
Departmental Leadership & Strategy
Setting and delivering the strategic vision for the Corporate/Commercial department in line with wider firm objectives.
Leading, motivating and developing a team of lawyers and support staff.
Establishing effective workflows, quality controls and compliance standards.
Client Advisory & Complex Work
Managing a high-quality caseload including M&A, shareholder agreements, corporate governance, commercial contracts, restructurings and joint ventures.
Acting as a trusted advisor to SMEs, owner-managed businesses and high-value commercial clients.
Maintaining hands-on involvement in complex matters while balancing leadership responsibilities.
Business Development & Profile Building
Developing new client relationships and strengthening existing ones to drive sustainable growth.
Representing the department externally through networking, referrals and profile-raising activity.
Playing a central role in shaping and delivering firm-wide growth initiatives.
People Development & Mentoring
Supervising and mentoring junior lawyers, supporting progression and long-term retention.
Building a collaborative, high-performing departmental culture with a clear sense of direction.
The Ideal Candidate
Significant PQE (ideally 8+ years) with a strong mix of both corporate and commercial work.
A senior lawyer who is motivated by influence, leadership and departmental ownership rather than title alone.
Experience handling complex, high-value matters with a commercial, pragmatic approach.
A track record of developing client relationships and contributing to business growth.
Prior experience supervising or mentoring lawyers.
Strategic, confident and personable, with the appetite to drive change and take ownership of outcomes.
Working Arrangement & Package
Role based in Stroud or Gloucester, with hybrid and flexible working available, particularly for candidates bringing strong and relevant experience.
Salary will be bespoke, aligned to individual expectations and experience.
A comprehensive benefits package and genuine scope to influence direction, culture and long-term success.
Any candidates who would like a confidential chat about this role should contact Sam Higgins at Simpson Judge either on (phone number removed) or via email at