Locum Head of Landlord & Tenant Solicitor (Maternity Cover)

About the role

A leading property management firm in Southend‑on‑Sea is seeking an experienced solicitor to lead its Landlord & Tenant department on a locum basis. The role covers a maternity leave period and offers the chance to manage a specialist legal function while delivering high‑quality advice to landlords and internal teams.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee day‑to‑day operations of the Landlord & Tenant department.
• Handle a varied and complex caseload covering residential tenancy matters, possession proceedings, lease issues and disputes.
• Provide strategic legal advice to landlords, property managers and internal stakeholders.
• Manage complex disputes and litigation, including drafting and negotiating settlements.
• Review, draft and issue legal documents, notices and correspondence.
• Support negotiations and dispute resolution with tenants and third parties.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, regulations and best practice.
• Mentor and support junior team members and identify process improvements.

Required profile

• Qualified solicitor with strong experience in Landlord & Tenant law.
• Demonstrated ability to manage a varied and complex caseload independently.
• Commercially minded with the ability to provide practical, business‑focused advice.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.
• Experience in a property, housing or property‑management environment is advantageous.

Required skills

• Landlord & Tenant law
• Legal drafting
• Litigation