Debt Recovery Solicitor Team Leader

QED Legal LLP; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A North East-based legal service firm is looking for a qualified Solicitor to lead its Debt Recovery Team in Newcastle upon Tyne. This role combines hands-on litigation work with team management, focusing on performance and client retention. The ideal candidate will have 1–3 years of PQE, strong litigation knowledge, and proven debt recovery experience. This is an excellent opportunity to grow within a high-performing team that prioritizes client outcomes and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• 1–3 years of experience as a qualified solicitor.
• Proven experience in debt recovery.
• Knowledge of Civil Procedure Rules and Debt Pre-Action Protocols.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and support a team of Debt Recovery Paralegals.
• Conduct litigation within the Debt Recovery team.
• Work collaboratively with the Head of Department to achieve targets.
• Support the training and development of team members.
• Conduct regular performance reviews.

Skills

Debt recovery experience

Strong litigation knowledge

Problem-solving ability

Strong IT literacy

Collaborative approach

Education

1–3 years' PQE

Job description

Debt Recovery Team Leader (Solicitor)

Location: Newcastle upon Tyne

Hours: Full-time

Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

The Opportunity A leading North East–based legal and professional services group, operating nationally and recognised for its excellent client outcomes, is expanding its Debt Recovery Team and is seeking a qualified Solicitor to join as a Team Leader.

This is an excellent opportunity for a solicitor who enjoys combining hands‑on litigation work with people management, within a high‑performing and growing team.

The Role

As Debt Recovery Team Leader, you will be responsible for the day‑to‑day management of a team of dedicated Debt Recovery Paralegals. Your focus will be on driving performance, supporting development, retaining clients, and maximising debt recovery for the business.

Working closely with the Head of Department, you will play a key role in ensuring operational excellence, compliance, and strong commercial outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervising and supporting a team of Debt Recovery Paralegals
• Conducting and authorising litigation within the Debt Recovery team
• Working collaboratively with the Head of Department to meet performance targets
• Supporting the training, development, and progression of team members
• Conducting regular one-to-one meetings and performance reviews
• Supporting client retention and maximising debt recovery
• Commencing matters under the Debt Pre‑Action Protocol
• Negotiating with debtors and assessing repayment options
• Carrying out residency and financial searches to assess ability to pay
• Issuing Part 7 proceedings and making court applications
• Drafting court documents, including:
  • Attachment of Earnings Orders
  • Charging Orders
• Liaising with High Court Enforcement Agents
• Drafting witness statements
• Preparing cases for trial

About You

Essential Experience and Skills

• 1–3 years’ PQE
• Proven debt recovery experience
• Strong litigation knowledge and hands‑on experience
• Solid understanding of Civil Procedure Rules and Debt Pre‑Action Protocols
• Experience working to deadlines and performance objectives
• Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making ability
• A collaborative, flexible, and team‑focused approach
• Strong IT literacy

Desirable Experience

• Previous leadership or supervisory experience (or relevant equivalent experience)
• Ability to motivate, coach, and support others
• Confidence communicating vision, strategy, and commercial awareness
• A flexible and positive approach to change and continuous improvement

Next Steps

This is a rare opportunity to step into a leadership role within a successful and growing Debt Recovery team.

For a confidential discussion about this role or to explore other legal opportunities across the North East, please apply or get in touch with Beth at QED Legal to discuss further.