Private Client Partner - Guildford

Private Client Solicitor - Salaried Partner, GuildfordAn established and forward-thinking law firm is seeking a highly experienced Private Client Solicitor to join its team in a senior capacity. This role offers the opportunity to provide expert legal advice, shape strategic direction, and contribute to the overall growth of the Private Client department.Role OverviewWorking closely with the Partners and Deputy Head, the successful candidate will:

• Contribute to the department's strategic direction and growth strategy.
• Provide technical expertise across all areas of private client work.
• Deliver exceptional client service through expert, clear, and professional advice.
• Lead, develop, and inspire a collaborative and high-performing team.

Key ResponsibilitiesClient Service Excellence:

• Offer expert guidance on complex estate planning, trust creation and management, inheritance tax, and estate administration.
• Maintain high standards of client service, ensuring exceptional satisfaction levels.

Complex Case Management:

• Handle intricate estate administration cases involving high-value assets, complex tax relief claims, and challenging family dynamics.
• Advise on Court of Protection matters, including gift applications and statutory Wills.

Strategic and Financial Oversight:

• Assist with investment decisions, property sales, and distributions for estates and trusts in administration.
• Support the department in achieving financial targets, KPIs, and business growth.
• Provide strategic risk management advice for private client matters.

Leadership and Team Development:

• Supervise and support team members, including monitoring workloads and KPIs.
• Conduct appraisals and foster career development among junior staff.
• Promote a positive, innovative, and collaborative work environment.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Ensure all client matters adhere to regulatory and compliance standards, including AML and KYC requirements.
• Oversee risk assessments for high-risk cases and promote best practices across the team.

Business Development:

• Play an active role in developing and implementing the department's growth and marketing strategies.
• Identify opportunities for cross-referrals to other departments.
• Support private wealth PR campaigns and client relationship management.

Qualifications and Experience

• Qualified solicitor with significant post-qualification experience (typically 10+ years) in private client law.
• STEP qualifications are essential; additional SFE or Chartered Tax Advisor qualifications are advantageous.
• Proven expertise in estate planning, trust law, and inheritance tax.
• Demonstrated success in managing high-value estates and complex cases.

Essential Skills and Attributes

• A positive, proactive approach with a commitment to excellence.
• Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities.
• Business acumen with a history of driving department growth.
• Outstanding communication skills, capable of simplifying complex legal concepts.
• A focus on compliance and ethical standards.
• Familiarity with practice management systems such as Practice Evolve is desirable.

What's on OfferThis role provides the opportunity to work within a progressive, client-focused firm that values innovation and collaboration. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in the department's success and growth while enjoying a competitive salary and benefits package.How to ApplyTo apply, please submit your CV This is a unique opportunity to join a thriving firm and lead a team dedicated to delivering outstanding client service.