Legal Director | Private Client Advisory | Bristol
The Firm:
A full-service, UK Top 50 law firm with a heritage spanning 160 years, employing over 700 legal professionals across its offices in Cambridge, Chelmsford, Ipswich, London, Norwich, Sevenoaks, and soon in Bristol. Following the successful launch of a Southwest hub in 2021, the firm is now expanding with a full-service presence in Bristol, providing both business and private client services to clients in the region, the UK, and internationally.
With a strong focus on Diversity, Sustainability, and Community Engagement, the firm is proud to have female partners comprising 40% of its partnership and supports ESG goals across all operations. The firm is renowned for its culture of collaboration, offering a rewarding, inclusive environment for professional growth and career development.
The Department:
The Private Client Advisory Team comprises over 60 specialist lawyers, including 15 partners. The team provides expert advice on a wide range of issues, including tax, succession planning, trust and estate administration, wills, and mitigating tax liabilities for high-net-worth individuals, families, and owner-managed businesses.
Working closely with the Agricultural Team, the department also advises farming families and landed estates on succession and tax planning. This role represents a fantastic opportunity to join a rapidly expanding team in Bristol, focusing on the growth of the office while delivering exceptional client service.
The Role:
The firm is seeking an experienced Legal Director to join the Private Client Advisory Team in Bristol. The successful candidate will play a vital role in providing expert legal advice to high-net-worth clients, managing a portfolio of clients, and contributing to the overall growth of the firm's Bristol office.
As Legal Director, you will:
* Provide high-quality legal advice on succession planning, tax advice, wills, estate administration, and other areas of private client law.
* Manage and grow relationships with high-net-worth clients, identifying opportunities for cross-selling and expanding services.
* Lead and mentor a team of junior lawyers, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment while ensuring efficient service delivery.
* Contribute to the development and execution of the firm's strategic growth plan in Bristol.
* Participate in business development activities, such as networking, attending conferences, and drafting sector-relevant publications.
* Lead efforts to establish and grow the firm's presence in the region, leveraging local networks and industry contacts.
Who You Are:
The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated, client-focused lawyer with 8+ years' PQE and experience advising high-net-worth clients across a variety of private client advisory areas. You will have a proven track record of business development and establishing a strong market presence, with a particular interest in growing the Bristol office.
Key Skills & Experience:
* 8+ years' PQE in private client advisory law, ideally within a leading regional, national, or city law firm.
* Expertise in succession planning, tax advice, trust and estate administration, wills, and estate management.
* Proven experience in client relationship management and business development.
* Strong leadership abilities, with experience managing and mentoring junior lawyers.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build long-lasting client relationships.
* Entrepreneurial mindset, with the ability to thrive in a dynamic, growing environment.
Why Join This Team?
This is a unique opportunity to be part of a founding team in a new office in Bristol, contributing to the firm's expansion while working on complex, high-value private client matters. The firm is committed to professional development, offering a range of benefits and a flexible, supportive work culture that encourages collaboration and personal growth.
Benefits Include:
* 30 days holiday (FTE) plus Bank Holidays.
* Long Service Award: 1 additional week every 10 years of continuous service.
* Private Healthcare (via BUPA after probation).
* Pension Scheme (5% employer/5% employee).
* Life Assurance (4x salary), Permanent Health Insurance.
* Subsidised gym membership.
* Agile working policy and Dress for Your Day policy.
* Electric car scheme and enhanced maternity/paternity leave.
* Paid ESG Day (Environmental, Social, and Governance).
Equal Opportunities:
The firm is committed to equality, ensuring that every candidate is treated fairly and based on merit. We offer a diverse and inclusive environment and value applicants from all backgrounds.
What Next?
For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Tom Amer at tom@jmc-legal.com or call 0117 422 0318. Alternatively, apply now for immediate consideration.
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