Head of Private Client Solicitor – Lead Private Client Team

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Private Client Solicitor to lead our Private Client department across our Dorchester and Wareham offices. Reporting to senior partners, you will shape the strategic direction of a team of 30 lawyers and support the firm’s growth ambitions.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, mentor and develop a multi‑office team of 30 private client professionals.
• Set and execute the department’s strategic plan, ensuring high‑quality delivery of wills, trusts, probate, estate administration and estate planning services.
• Manage staff performance, recruitment and career progression in partnership with HR.
• Maintain strong client relationships and drive business development initiatives.
• Oversee supervision, technical excellence and risk management across the practice.
• Handle a personal caseload of complex private client matters.

Required profile

• Minimum 10 years post‑qualification experience in private client law.
• Proven track record of leading teams or managing a legal department.
• Deep expertise in trusts, tax and estate planning.
• Collaborative and motivational leadership style with a focus on mentoring and performance management.
• Proactive problem‑solver with a commercial mindset.

Required skills

• Wills and probate
• Trusts administration
• Estate planning and administration
• Tax considerations in private client work