Job Description
At Howells, we combine a fresh and forward-thinking approach with a client-focused, local feel to deliver a range of award-winning, quality services.
We are seeking an ambitious and commercially minded Private Client Partner to lead the growth of our Wills, Probate & Private Client offering across the Swansea and Bridgend regions. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced lawyer who is passionate about developing a thriving regional practice, building lasting client relationships and establishing a high-performing team from the ground up. Alongside managing a high-quality fee-earning caseload, you will play a key role in raising the firm’s profile across South Wales, developing new business opportunities and implementing a strategic growth plan. Working closely with the firm’s leadership team, you will recruit, mentor and develop talented colleagues while positioning Howells as a leading provider of Private Client services throughout Swansea and Bridgend.
What you’ll be responsible for:
- Identifying and developing sources of work in the fields of work undertaken in the Private Client team across Swansea and Bridgend.
- Working with the head of the Private Client team to produce and deliver a regional business development strategy to expand the firm’s client base and increase market share.
- Building and maintaining strong relationships with private clients, professional introducers, financial advisers, accountants, estate agents, care providers and other key stakeholders.
- Acting as a visible ambassador for the firm through networking, community engagement and professional events across the region.
- Managing a varied and high-quality fee-earning caseload, including wills, estate administration, probate, trusts, lasting powers of attorney, Court of Protection matters and estate planning.
- Identifying and securing new business opportunities while maintaining a strong personal fee-earning contribution.
- Collaborating with the head of Private Client to develop the firm’s Private Client services in Bridgend and Swansea, including the recruitment of staff as workloads develop, at all times fostering a culture of collaboration, excellence and continuous development.
- Supervising, mentoring and supporting junior lawyers and support staff when required.
- Managing case files, correspondence and diaries in accordance with the firm’s procedures, ensuring compliance with SRA requirements.
- Completing time recording, performance reviews and other management information required by the firm.
- Working collaboratively with colleagues across all practice areas to maximise cross-referral opportunities.
- Delivering exceptional client care and maintaining the highest professional standards.
- Working confidently with the firm’s Case Management System and embracing technology to improve client service and operational efficiency.
- Completing safeguarding training and responding appropriately to safeguarding concerns in accordance with firm policies.
- Maintaining the highest levels of confidentiality, professionalism and integrity.
- Undertaking any other reasonable duties as required by the Head of Private Client.
What we’re looking for:
- Qualified Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive with a minimum of 8 years’ PQE (or equivalent experience) specialising in Private Client law.
- A proven track record of advising on a broad range of private client matters, including wills, probate, estate administration, trusts, inheritance tax planning, lasting powers of attorney and Court of Protection work.
- Demonstrable experience of winning new business and developing strong relationships with clients and professional referrers.
- Strong commercial awareness with the ability to identify and capitalise on opportunities for business growth.
- Previous leadership or management experience, with the ability to recruit, develop and inspire a successful team.
- An entrepreneurial mindset with the ambition to establish and grow a leading Private Client practice across Swansea and Bridgend.
- A commitment to maintaining a significant personal fee-earning contribution while leading the department.
- Outstanding client relationship management and business development skills.
- Excellent communication, networking and interpersonal skills.
- Strong organisational and case management abilities.
- Excellent IT skills with the ability to quickly adapt to new systems.
- High levels of professionalism, integrity and commercial judgement.
- A collaborative approach and commitment to contributing to the wider success of the firm.
What you’ll receive:
- Competitive Salary
- Annual Leave: Enjoy a minimum of 25 days each holiday year, plus bank holidays and extra time off to unwind, including an additional personal day, a day off for your birthday, and a discretionary paid day during the Christmas break.
- Annual Leave Purchase Scheme: Option to buy up to 3 extra days of leave annually to support your work-life balance.
- Gym Discounts: Access discounted memberships to help you stay active and healthy.
- Growth & Development: We’re invested in your career with opportunities for learning and advancement.
- Milestone Recognition: Celebrate your dedication with recognition and awards for key milestones.
- Events: Take part in various networking, corporate, and charity events throughout the year.
- Refer a Friend Scheme: Get rewarded for referring talented friends and connections to join the team.
- Discounted Childcare: Benefit from an agreed discounted rate at a nearby nursery, helping to make childcare more affordable and convenient.
If you have any questions about this opportunity, please email recruitment@howellslegal.com
Successful candidates will be subject to a basic or enhanced DBS disclosure dependent on the role. Permanent employment is conditional on having a satisfactory DBS check. You will therefore be asked to disclose any unspent convictions during the recruitment process.