Head of Legal

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of Legal to lead the Commercial Division of our National Law Firm, based in Manchester. This is a key leadership role that will oversee the growth and strategic development of our commercial services, including commercial contracts, corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, and general business law. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in commercial law, leadership, and business development, with a vision to drive the firm’s commercial practice to new heights.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership and Strategy:
  • Lead the Commercial Division, developing and executing the department’s strategy in alignment with the firm’s overall objectives.
  • Manage and mentor a team of legal professionals, fostering a collaborative, high-performance culture.
  • Collaborate with other departments to ensure the seamless delivery of cross-functional legal services.
  • Set and oversee departmental goals, ensuring effective monitoring and achievement of targets.
• Client Development and Relationship Management:
  • Lead business development initiatives, enhancing the firm’s market presence and attracting new clients in key commercial sectors.
  • Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with existing clients, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and retention.
  • Engage with clients on complex legal matters, offering innovative solutions and value-added services.
• Legal Expertise:
  • Provide high-level legal advice on commercial contracts, corporate transactions, and other business-related legal matters.
  • Manage significant commercial transactions and cases, providing strategic direction and expert legal insight.
  • Oversee legal risk management, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations across the commercial sector.
• Operational Management:
  • Oversee day-to-day operations of the Commercial Division, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery.
  • Work closely with the firm’s senior leadership to align business operations with overall objectives and market trends.
  • Monitor financial performance, budgetary controls, and profitability of the commercial practice.
• Team Development and Training:
  • Lead the recruitment, training, and professional development of the legal team within the Commercial Division.
  • Support team members’ progression by offering mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for growth.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

• Qualified Solicitor with significant experience in commercial law, corporate law, and business transactions.
• Proven experience in a senior leadership role within a law firm or in-house legal department, with a strong understanding of managing a legal practice.
• Demonstrable experience in business development, client relationship management, and strategy formulation in a legal setting.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with stakeholders at all levels.
• A strategic thinker with the ability to make sound decisions under pressure and lead a team through complex challenges.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with an ability to handle multiple high-priority tasks.

Desirable Attributes:

• Previous experience within a National or large-scale law firm is highly desirable.
• A strong network within the commercial legal sector.
• Strong business acumen and commercial awareness, particularly with respect to the evolving landscape of business law.
• Experience working with cross-functional teams and a track record of delivering business growth.

Why Join Us? This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in the expansion of one of the UK’s leading national law firms. As the Head of Legal for the Commercial Division, you will have the autonomy to shape the future of the firm’s commercial legal practice, working alongside a highly skilled team in a supportive and forward-thinking environment. You will be part of a respected firm that values professional development, work-life balance, and an inclusive workplace culture.

If you are passionate about shaping the future of commercial legal services and taking on a leadership role in a fast-paced, innovative environment, we would love to hear from you.