Head of Private Client
Durham | Partner-Level Opportunity

I’m currently working with a highly regarded and award-winning North East law firm that is looking to appoint a Head of Private Client to lead and grow its established team.

This is a standout leadership opportunity within a progressive, ambitious firm that is genuinely committed to growth, innovation and investing in its people. In 2025, the firm was named Law Firm of the Year at the Northern Law Awards, with four teams ranked Tier One in The Legal 500 and 22 lawyers individually recognised — a clear reflection of the quality of work and strength of reputation in the market.

The culture is forward-thinking and collaborative, with a strong emphasis on creating an environment where talented professionals can thrive.

The Role As Head of Private Client, you will lead the division while managing your own portfolio of high-net-worth individuals and families. You will provide expert advice across a broad spectrum of private client matters, including succession planning, tax, estate management, trusts and Court of Protection work.

This role combines high-quality technical work with strategic leadership and business development. You will play a key role in shaping the future direction of the team while ensuring outstanding service delivery to an established and growing client base.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Private Client division, ensuring exceptional client service and technical excellence
• Advise high-net-worth individuals, families and trustees on complex tax, trust and estate planning matters
• Provide expertise in estate planning, trusts, probate and Court of Protection work
• Build and maintain long-term client relationships, delivering bespoke and commercially sound solutions
• Drive business development initiatives, identifying new opportunities and expanding the firm’s client base
• Mentor, supervise and develop junior team members
• Stay abreast of legislative and tax developments to provide forward-thinking, strategic advice
• Collaborate with colleagues across other practice areas to deliver holistic solutions

About You I’m keen to speak with experienced private client specialists who bring both strong technical expertise and proven leadership capability.

You will ideally have:

• A strong background in Private Client law and/or tax planning
• Significant experience advising on complex estate planning, trusts, probate and Court of Protection matters
• Previous experience managing and developing a team
• A demonstrable track record in business development and growing client relationships
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and negotiation skills
• STEP qualification (highly desirable)

The Opportunity This is an exceptional opportunity for an ambitious senior lawyer to take on a strategic leadership role within a firm that is recognised for excellence and committed to continued growth.

If you are looking for a platform where you can lead, influence and further build a high-performing Private Client team, I would be delighted to have a confidential conversation.

For a confidential chat, reach out to Beth Livings at QED Legal via the details provided.