Partner - Private Client

Yolk Recruitment Ltd; Taunton; Hybrid; GBP 85,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading firm in Somerset is seeking a Head of Private Client to lead a well-established team. This role offers the chance to influence the future of the firm, manage a diverse caseload, and progress to Board level. Ideal candidates will have substantial experience in Private Client law and strong leadership skills, along with a clear pathway towards Directorship. Benefits include a competitive salary, flexible hybrid working, and a supportive firm culture.

Benefits

Private healthcare

Flexible hybrid working options

25 days' holiday plus bank holidays

Performance bonuses

Clear path to Directorship

Qualifications

• 5+ years PQE in Private Client law.
• Experience mentoring and leading teams.
• Strong commercial acumen indicated by business development successes.

Responsibilities

• Leading and developing the Private Client team.
• Managing high-value caseloads including Wills and Trusts.
• Driving business development and marketing initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Business Development

Client Relationship Management

Mentoring

Education

STEP Qualification (advantageous)

Bar Professional Training Course

Job description

Position: Head of Private Client
Location: Somerset - choice of offices, with hybrid working options
Salary: Up to £100,000 DOE + two bonuses

Lead. Influence. Progress.

Are you ready to take the lead in a well-established and respected Private Client team, with full support to shape its future and real progression to the Board?

This is a standout opportunity to step into a Head of Private Client role at a long-standing firm with deep roots in Somerset and West Dorset. With offices in picturesque locations, this well-regarded firm is known for its professional yet down-to-earth approach, strong community ties and genuinely supportive culture.

You'll be joining a firm that balances traditional values with a forward-thinking mindset, giving you the space and autonomy to make strategic decisions, mentor others and influence the firm's long-term direction.

The Opportunity:

This role is perfect for an experienced Private Client leader who thrives in a hands-on environment and wants to take that next step - both in influence and visibility. The team is already high-performing and well-established, but you'll have the scope to elevate and grow it further, supported by a collaborative senior leadership team.

Key responsibilities:

• Leading and developing the Private Client team, with the backing and autonomy to shape strategy and operations.
• Managing a complex, high-value caseload including Wills, Trusts, Probate, Tax Planning, LPAs, and Court of Protection.
• Driving business development, marketing initiatives, and strategic partnerships.
• Supporting junior lawyers through mentoring and supervision.
• Ensuring compliance with regulatory and professional standards.
• Collaborating with other departments on cross-disciplinary matters.

What We Are Looking For:

• Substantial experience (5 years PQE+) in Private Client law, ideally across the full range of Wills, Probate, Trusts and Tax Planning.
• A confident and people-focused leader, with experience mentoring and developing junior staff.
• Strong commercial acumen, with a proven record in business development or client relationship growth.
• Ambition and drive to progress - including interest in joining the firm's Board of Directors.
• STEP qualification (or working towards it) is advantageous but not essential.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle due to occasional inter-office travel.

What Will You Get in Return?

• Salary up to £100,000 DOE.
• Two performance bonuses annually.
• Clear path to Directorship and Board-level leadership.
• Private healthcare.
• Flexible hybrid working options.
• 25 days' holiday plus bank holidays.
• A modern, collaborative and genuinely welcoming firm culture.

If you're looking for a role where you'll be empowered to lead, valued for your expertise, and given real progression - this could be your perfect next step.

Interested in learning more? Reach out to celyn.summers@yolkrecruitment to arrange a confidential chat!