Head of Private Client - Chelmsford
Location: Chelmsford, Essex
Salary: Highly Competitive + Benefits + Strategic Leadership Opportunity

Are you ready to take the lead of a busy, high-performing Private Client team in a respected, long-established law firm? We are seeking an exceptional Head of Private Client to join a growing Chelmsford office, offering the chance to shape the department's strategic direction while managing a sophisticated and varied caseload.

The Role
This is a unique opportunity for a technically strong, commercially minded Private Client lawyer to step into a leadership position. You will oversee a team managing complex wills, estate planning, trusts, LPAs, Court of Protection applications, probate and estate administration, including high-value and cross-border matters. With the firm committed to delivering exceptional client service, you will play a pivotal role in mentoring and developing fee earners, driving innovation in processes, and enhancing the department's profile locally and nationally.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Private Client team, providing strategic direction, performance oversight, and mentoring.
• Handle complex and high-value estate planning, trust creation and administration, probate and LPAs.
• Advise high-net-worth clients, business owners, and entrepreneurial families on succession planning and asset protection.
• Develop and implement business development strategies, building strong client relationships and professional networks.
• Ensure the department maintains compliance, operational efficiency, and delivery of excellent client care.

About You

• A minimum of 8-10 years' PQE in Private Client law, with experience managing teams or departments.
• Strong technical expertise across Wills, Trusts, Probate, LPAs, and estate planning for HNW clients.
• Demonstrable leadership and team management skills with a proactive, strategic mindset.
• Excellent client-facing and communication skills, able to inspire trust and confidence.
• Commercially aware, with a proven ability to grow and develop a department.

Why This Role?

This role is perfect for a senior Private Client lawyer who wants more than just a caseload. You will lead, shape, and influence the future of a growing Private Client department while maintaining hands-on involvement with complex and rewarding client matters. If you are ambitious, entrepreneurial, and ready to make your mark in a collaborative, forward-thinking environment, this could be the next step in your career.