Head of Department – Private Client – 4 years+ PQE

Company: Chadwick Nott
Apply for the Head of Department – Private Client – 4 years+ PQE
Location: Somerset
Job Description:

Overview

You will lead the Private Client department across multiple offices, shaping strategy and overseeing a team of fee earners and support staff. This senior role combines management with growth through client service and cross-department collaboration. You will drive department performance, ensure compliance and governance, and spearhead marketing and business development to expand the firm’s private client reach. The opportunity offers a collaborative culture, a strong community presence, and scope for strategic influence in a respected regional firm.

Pay / Benefits

  • 33 days holiday including bank holidays
  • Bonus scheme
  • Pension enrolment after 3 months’ probation
  • Supportive leadership and career development opportunities

Responsibilities

  • Oversee the Private Client department and manage a team of fee earners and support staff
  • Day-to-day departmental management and matter distribution
  • Supervision of junior fee earners
  • Oversight of support services and team coordination
  • Ensure individual fee earner targets are met
  • Maintain compliant and up-to-date electronic files
  • Time recording and management reporting
  • Promote internal referrals and cross-departmental collaboration
  • Ensure Lexcel and internal policy compliance
  • Managing billing, payments, and departmental cash flow
  • Identify and develop fee-earning opportunities
  • Lead marketing and business development for the department

Key requirements

  • Qualified Solicitor or FCILEx with at least 4 years PQE
  • Proven leadership experience
  • Strong technical knowledge of Private Client law
  • Effective team management and mentoring skills
  • Commercial awareness and strategic thinking
  • Commitment to client service and professional standards
  • Ability to lead departmental growth and development
  • leadership
  • mentoring
  • commercial awareness
  • Private Client law knowledge
  • case/tmatter distribution and file management
  • time recording

…

Posted: October 1st, 2026