Head of Department – Private Client Solicitor

Overview

In this role you lead the Private Client department at a regional firm in Taunton, driving client service and growth. You will oversee complex private client matters and mentor a small team, while ensuring regulatory compliance. The position offers genuine influence, autonomy, and a clear pathway to Partnership for the right candidate. You will shape the department’s direction and contribute to long‑term firm objectives with a client‑focused, commercial mindset.

Pay / Benefits

• Salary 60,000 to 75,000 (with Partnership prospects)
• Partnership pathway
• Friendly, supportive and collaborative culture
• Strong administrative support
• Long-standing client relationships
• High quality work

Responsibilities

• Lead the Private Client department and manage a busy caseload
• Handle taxable estates and complex probate matters
• Advise on agricultural estates and rural succession issues
• Draft wills, LPAs and trust documentation
• Provide clear, empathetic client advice
• Supervise two fee earners and a 3–4 person support team
• Ensure regulatory compliance across the department
• Drive business development and departmental growth

Key requirements

• Strong experience across the full spectrum of private client work
• Expertise in taxable estates and agricultural matters
• Proven ability to manage and supervise a team
• Excellent communication and client care skills
• Strong organisational ability and attention to detail
• Confidence managing a busy caseload independently
• Proactive, commercially minded approach
• Ambition to progress into Partnership

• communication
• client care
• leadership
• private client practice
• taxable estates
• agricultural matters

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