Head of Department – Private Client Solicitor
Location: Taunton
Type of Role: Permanent, Full-time
Salary: £60,000 to £75,000 (with Partnership prospects)

A long established and well respected regional law firm is seeking an experienced Private Client Solicitor to step into a Head of Department role at its Taunton office. This is a rare leadership opportunity offering genuine influence, autonomy and a clear pathway to Partnership for the right candidate.

The Role
Following a short handover period, you will take full responsibility for leading the Private Client department. You will oversee a busy and varied caseload while managing and supporting a team of fee earners and support staff. Work will include:

• Managing a broad range of private client matters
• Handling taxable estates and complex probate
• Advising on agricultural estates and rural succession issues
• Drafting wills, LPAs and trust documentation
• Providing clear, empathetic advice to clients
• Supervising and mentoring two fee earners (Solicitor and Legal Executive)
• Leading a support team of 3–4 staff
• Ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements
• Driving business development and departmental growth

This is an excellent opportunity for a senior solicitor ready to take the next step into departmental leadership.

Candidate Requirements
The ideal candidate will have:

• 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
• A proactive, commercially minded approach
• Ambition to progress into Partnership

Why This Firm?
This opportunity sits within a firm known for:

• A friendly, supportive and collaborative culture
• Long standing client relationships and high quality work
• Genuine progression opportunities, including Partnership
• A stable, well structured Private Client team
• Strong administrative support
• A reputation for excellent client service across the region

This is the ideal role for a senior solicitor seeking leadership responsibility and long term career progression.

How to Apply

For a confidential discussion or to apply, please contact:

Olivia Reed
Email: oliviareed@chadwicknott.co.uk
Phone: 0117 917 1515 / 07711 799761