Private Client Legal Director

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.