Private Client Solicitor / Legal Executive

Location: Sheffield 

Salary: £65,000 to £90,000 (depending on experience)

Experience: 10+ years’ PQE in Private Client (Solicitor or Legal Executive)

This is an excellent opportunity for a highly experienced Private Client Solicitor or Legal Executive to join our client’s Wills, Trusts and Probate team. You will handle complex private client matters, act as a trusted adviser to clients across generations, and play a key role in supporting and mentoring junior fee earners within a larger, collaborative department.

You will take ownership of a varied and complex private client caseload, with the autonomy expected at senior level and the support of an established team around you. The firm can offer flexibility on base location across its regional offices, and hybrid working may be possible.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Managing complex wills, probate and estate administration matters

• Advising on trusts and tax planning as part of wider estate and succession planning

• Acting as a trusted adviser to clients, delivering clear advice with strong client care

• Managing files efficiently, maintaining high standards of accuracy and compliance

• Supporting and mentoring junior fee earners and contributing to team development

• Building long-term client relationships and supporting repeat instructions

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• Qualified Solicitor or Legal Executive

• At least 10 years’ post-qualification experience in Private Client

• Strong technical capability across wills, probate, estate administration, trusts and tax planning

• Confident client-facing approach and ability to handle sensitive matters with empathy and professionalism

• Collaborative mindset and a genuine interest in mentoring and developing others

Desirable

• Experience advising on more complex estates and succession planning matters

• Interest in supporting business development and strengthening client relationships

What’s On Offer

• 38 days’ annual leave (inclusive of bank and public holidays)

• Life assurance (3x annual salary)

• Generous sickness allowance after 6 months

• Enhanced maternity and paternity pay

• Ongoing professional development and training

Location & Working Arrangements

• Base location to suit the successful candidate (including Sheffield, Nottingham, Lincoln, or Grimsby)

• Full-time, permanent

• Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:15pm

• Hybrid working may be possible

Next Steps

Apply online or send your CV to  lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com  or call 0333 996 2882 for more information.

All applications will be handled in strict confidence.

Partner – Contentious Probate Solicitor

Location: Sheffield

Salary: £90,000 to £130,000 (depending on experience)

Experience: Senior Contentious Probate Solicitor operating at, or ready for, Partner level

This is a rare opportunity for a Partner-level Contentious Probate Solicitor to join our client and help shape a growing, high-demand practice area. This is a strategic appointment, reflecting both the volume of work already in place and a long-term commitment to developing contentious probate as a core specialism.

The role can be based in Sheffield, Nottingham or Lincoln, offering flexibility across the firm’s regional footprint.

You will lead a complex and varied contentious probate caseload, influence the direction of the department, and play a key role in building the firm’s profile in this specialist area. You will work alongside a collaborative partnership and will have the autonomy to develop client relationships and support the wider team.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Leading a complex and varied contentious probate caseload

• Advising on inheritance disputes, estate challenges, and trust litigation

• Contributing to the strategic development and growth of the contentious probate offering

• Supporting and mentoring colleagues within the team

• Playing an active role in business development and client relationship management

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• Senior contentious probate solicitor operating at, or ready for, partner level

• Strong technical experience across contentious probate and related trust and estate disputes

• Commercial mindset with a genuine interest in growing a specialist practice

• Collaborative, approachable leadership style and commitment to developing others

• Strong client-handling skills and a focus on high standards of service

Desirable

• ACTAPS membership, or working towards membership

• Established business development track record and interest in building a wider profile in the market

What’s On Offer

• 33 days’ annual leave (inclusive of bank and other public holidays), including birthday leave

• Employer pension contribution of 3% on whole salary

• Life assurance (3x annual salary)

• Employee Assistance Programme and cash plan (including counselling support, GP access, digital physiotherapy, gym discounts, and cashback towards day-to-day costs)

• Ongoing professional development and training

Location & Working Arrangements

• Sheffield, Nottingham or Lincoln

• Full-time, permanent

• Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:15pm

Next Steps

Apply online or send your CV to  lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com  or call 0333 996 2882 for more information.

All applications will be handled in strict confidence.

Commercial Property Solicitor / Legal Executive

Location: Sheffield

Salary: £55,000 to £75,000 (depending on level and experience)

Experience: 5+ years’ PQE in Commercial Property (Solicitor or Legal Executive)

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Commercial Property Solicitor or Legal Executive to join our client’s team in Sheffield. You will manage a varied caseload, build strong client relationships through high-quality service, and have the opportunity to support and mentor junior colleagues as the team continues to grow.

You will take ownership of a broad commercial property workload, working with a range of clients across the region. The role suits someone confident working autonomously, who also enjoys being part of a collaborative team and contributing to the wider success of the department.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Managing a varied caseload of commercial property matters from instruction through to completion

• Providing clear, practical advice and maintaining a high standard of client care

• Building and maintaining strong client relationships and supporting repeat instructions

• Managing deadlines, file progression, and day-to-day priorities effectively

• Maintaining accurate file records and working confidently with case management systems

• Supporting and mentoring junior team members where appropriate

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• Qualified Solicitor or Legal Executive

• Minimum 5 years’ PQE (or equivalent experience) in Commercial Property

• Confident managing matters with a good level of autonomy

• Strong time management, organisation, and IT skills

• Friendly, approachable, and professional communication style

• Collaborative approach and willingness to support the wider team

What’s On Offer

• 38 days’ annual leave (inclusive of bank and public holidays)

• Life assurance (3x annual salary)

• Generous sickness allowance after 6 months

• Enhanced maternity and paternity allowance

• Ongoing professional development and training

Location & Working Arrangements

• Sheffield

• Full-time, permanent

• Monday to Friday, 09:00 to 17:15

• Hybrid working may be available, subject to approval

Next Steps

Apply online or send your CV to  lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com  or call 0333 996 2882 for more information.

All applications will be handled in strict confidence.

Conveyancing Assistant

Location: Sheffield

Salary: £24,000 to £30,000 (depending on experience)

Experience: 3+ years’ experience as a Conveyancing Assistant or Conveyancing Paralegal

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Conveyancing Assistant to join our client’s residential conveyancing team in Sheffield. You will play a key role in supporting transactions to progress efficiently and accurately, while maintaining a high standard of client care throughout.

You will support fee earners on a varied caseload of residential sale and purchase matters. The focus is on keeping files moving, managing key steps and deadlines, and ensuring clients and third parties are kept informed from instruction through to post-completion.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Supporting administration and legal work relating to residential sale and purchase transactions

• Preparing legal documents and routine correspondence

• Issuing sale contracts and assisting with replies to enquiries

• Assisting with mortgage redemptions and liaising with lenders

• Liaising with clients, solicitors, lenders, estate agents and other third parties

• Maintaining accurate file notes and updating the case management system

• Supporting compliance requirements and ensuring standards are met

• Using the Land Registry portal, SDLT online submission system and lender portals

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• At least 3 years’ experience as a Conveyancing Assistant or Conveyancing Paralegal (residential)

• Experience issuing sale contracts and supporting enquiries, redemptions and the wider conveyancing process

• Good understanding of compliance requirements and the ability to meet standards

• Strong organisation skills and attention to detail

• Confident communicator with a client-focused approach

• Comfortable using case management systems and online portals (Land Registry, SDLT, lender portals)

What’s On Offer

• 33 days’ annual leave (inclusive of bank and public holidays)

• Your birthday off (if it falls on a weekday)

• Life assurance (3x annual salary)

• Ongoing professional development and training

Location & Working Arrangements

• Sheffield

• Full-time, permanent

• Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:15pm

Next Steps

Apply online or send your CV to  lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com  or call 0333 996 2882 for more information.

All applications will be handled in strict confidence.

Commercial Property Solicitor / Legal Executive

Location: Doncaster

Salary: £55,000 to £75,000 (depending on level and experience)

Experience: 5+ years’ PQE in Commercial Property (Solicitor or Legal Executive)

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Commercial Property Solicitor or Legal Executive to join our client’s team in Doncaster. You will manage a varied caseload, build strong client relationships through high-quality service, and have the opportunity to support and mentor junior colleagues as the team continues to grow.

You will take ownership of a broad commercial property workload, working with a range of clients across the region. The role suits someone confident working autonomously, who also enjoys being part of a collaborative team and contributing to the wider success of the department.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Managing a varied caseload of commercial property matters from instruction through to completion

• Providing clear, practical advice and maintaining a high standard of client care

• Building and maintaining strong client relationships and supporting repeat instructions

• Managing deadlines, file progression, and day-to-day priorities effectively

• Maintaining accurate file records and working confidently with case management systems

• Supporting and mentoring junior team members where appropriate

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• Qualified Solicitor or Legal Executive

• Minimum 5 years’ PQE (or equivalent experience) in Commercial Property

• Confident managing matters with a good level of autonomy

• Strong time management, organisation, and IT skills

• Friendly, approachable, and professional communication style

• Collaborative approach and willingness to support the wider team

What’s On Offer

• 38 days’ annual leave (inclusive of bank and public holidays)

• Life assurance (3x annual salary)

• Generous sickness allowance after 6 months

• Enhanced maternity and paternity allowance

• Ongoing professional development and training

Location & Working Arrangements

• Doncaster

• Full-time, permanent

• Monday to Friday, 09:00 to 17:15

• Hybrid working may be available, subject to approval

Next Steps

Apply online or send your CV to  lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com  or call 0333 996 2882 for more information.

All applications will be handled in strict confidence.

Conveyancing Assistant

Location: Doncaster

Salary: £24,000 to £30,000 (depending on experience)

Experience: 3+ years’ experience as a Conveyancing Assistant or Conveyancing Paralegal

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Conveyancing Assistant to join our client’s residential conveyancing team in Doncaster. You will play a key role in supporting transactions to progress efficiently and accurately, while maintaining a high standard of client care throughout.

You will support fee earners on a varied caseload of residential sale and purchase matters. The focus is on keeping files moving, managing key steps and deadlines, and ensuring clients and third parties are kept informed from instruction through to post-completion.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Supporting administration and legal work relating to residential sale and purchase transactions

• Preparing legal documents and routine correspondence

• Issuing sale contracts and assisting with replies to enquiries

• Assisting with mortgage redemptions and liaising with lenders

• Liaising with clients, solicitors, lenders, estate agents and other third parties

• Maintaining accurate file notes and updating the case management system

• Supporting compliance requirements and ensuring standards are met

• Using the Land Registry portal, SDLT online submission system and lender portals

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• At least 3 years’ experience as a Conveyancing Assistant or Conveyancing Paralegal (residential)

• Experience issuing sale contracts and supporting enquiries, redemptions and the wider conveyancing process

• Good understanding of compliance requirements and the ability to meet standards

• Strong organisation skills and attention to detail

• Confident communicator with a client-focused approach

• Comfortable using case management systems and online portals (Land Registry, SDLT, lender portals)

What’s On Offer

• 33 days’ annual leave (inclusive of bank and public holidays)

• Your birthday off (if it falls on a weekday)

• Life assurance (3x annual salary)

• Ongoing professional development and training

Location & Working Arrangements

• Doncaster

• Full-time, permanent

• Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:15pm

Next Steps

Apply online or send your CV to  lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com  or call 0333 996 2882 for more information.

All applications will be handled in strict confidence.

Senior Corporate Lawyer

Salary: £60,000 - £80,000 + Excellent Benefits

Location: Skipton Area

Are you ready to step into a leadership role with a clear succession plan? This is your opportunity to become Head of Department within an established Yorkshire law firm.

Our client, a well-established Yorkshire-based law firm with a rich heritage and diverse client portfolio spanning Industry, Manufacturing, and Commercial sectors, is seeking an ambitious Senior Corporate Lawyer as part of a strategic succession plan. With the current Head of Corporate Department approaching retirement, this role offers a genuine pathway to departmental leadership within a supportive, established firm.

Why This Role Stands Out

Clear Succession Plan – Join with a defined pathway to Head of Department as the current head prepares for retirement. This isn't a distant possibility – it's a structured succession opportunity.

Leadership from Day One – Take ownership of a varied corporate caseload whilst mentoring junior team members and shaping the department's future direction.

Genuine Flexibility – Based in Skipton with the option to work with the firm to establish a new satellite office in your preferred location.

Established Platform – Step into a department with strong foundations, loyal clients, and a reputation built over many years, ready for you to lead into the future.

The Role: What You'll Be Doing

As Senior Corporate Lawyer, you will manage a high-quality caseload of corporate and commercial matters whilst preparing to take on departmental leadership responsibilities.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Managing your own caseload of corporate and commercial matters independently, including company formations, share sales and purchases, commercial contracts, shareholder agreements, and business restructures

• Advising clients across Industry, Manufacturing, and Commercial sectors on a broad range of corporate transactions and commercial matters

• Mentoring and supervising junior lawyers (NQ solicitor and apprentice) who will form the foundation of the department's future

• Building strong client relationships and acting as a trusted adviser to established and growing businesses

• Contributing to business development through networking, client development, and thought leadership

• Playing a key role in succession planning and preparing for Head of Department responsibilities

• Being office-based 3 days per week to provide hands-on mentorship and team development

• Shaping the strategic direction of the corporate department in collaboration with firm leadership

What We're Looking For

Essential Requirements

• Qualified Solicitor with 5+ years PQE in Corporate & Commercial Law

• Strong technical expertise in corporate transactions (company formations, share sales/purchases, M&A, commercial contracts, shareholder agreements, business restructures)

• Proven track record of managing a varied corporate caseload independently with minimal supervision

• Experience mentoring and developing junior lawyers or trainees

• Excellent client relationship management and communication skills

• Commercial awareness and pragmatic, solutions-focused approach to client advice

• Leadership ambition with genuine interest in progressing to Head of Department

• Commitment to hybrid working (3 days office-based, 2 days flexible)

• Based in or willing to relocate to Skipton or surrounding North Yorkshire areas

Highly Desirable

• Sector experience working with Industry, Manufacturing, or Commercial clients

• Demonstrated business development success in corporate law

• Experience in succession planning or departmental leadership roles

• Track record of team development and building high-performing legal teams

• Strong negotiation skills and experience handling complex transactions

• Involvement in strategic planning or departmental management

What's on Offer: Your Benefits Package

Salary: £60,000 - £80,000 (dependent on experience, PQE, and leadership readiness)

Career Development:

• Clear succession pathway to Head of Corporate Department (structured timeline)

• Leadership responsibilities from day one with mentorship and strategic input

• Partnership potential as the department and your role develop

• Full support for professional development and leadership training

• Autonomy to shape the department's future direction and growth strategy

Working Arrangements:

• Hybrid working model – 3 days office-based, 2 days flexible (home or alternative location)

• Flexible office location – based in Skipton with option to establish a satellite office

• Modern working environment with supportive infrastructure

Professional Benefits:

• Established client base – inherit strong relationships and loyal clients

• Junior team support – NQ solicitor and apprentice to assist with your caseload

• Strong firm reputation – leverage decades of goodwill and client trust

• Diverse client base – work with Industry, Manufacturing, and Commercial sector clients across Yorkshire

• CPD and training support – ongoing professional development and leadership training

Additional Benefits:

• Competitive salary with scope for performance-based increases and progression

• Pension scheme with employer contributions

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

• Professional subscriptions covered (Law Society, SRA fees)

• Supportive, collaborative culture within an established firm

• Parking available at office location

About Our Client

Our client is a well-established Yorkshire law firm with a history spanning many years and a strong reputation for delivering high-quality legal services. They work with a diverse portfolio of clients across Industry, Manufacturing, and Commercial sectors, providing bespoke legal solutions with a personal touch.

The firm is at a pivotal stage with the current Head of Corporate Department. This creates a unique opportunity for an ambitious corporate lawyer to step into a leadership role with full support, established foundations, and a clear succession timeline.

Location & Working Arrangements

Office Location: Skipton, North Yorkshire

Satellite Office Option: The firm is open to establishing a new satellite office in a location that suits the right candidate, providing genuine flexibility for your work-life balance.

Hybrid Working: 3 days office-based (for team mentorship, client meetings, and departmental leadership), 2 days flexible working from home or alternative location.

Parking: Available at office location.

Commutable From: Keighley, Harrogate, Ilkley, Bradford, Leeds, Settle, and surrounding North Yorkshire and West Yorkshire areas.

How to Apply

If you're an experienced Corporate Lawyer with 5+ years PQE looking for a senior role with a clear succession plan to Head of Department, we want to hear from you.

This is a rare opportunity to join an established firm with genuine leadership progression, supportive foundations, and the autonomy to shape a department's future.

Take the Next Step

For a confidential discussion about this succession planning opportunity, please contact:

Lee Hawthorne-Finch

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions

Email: lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.comPhone: 0333 996 2882

All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. We provide full transparency throughout the recruitment process, and all candidates are contacted only with written consent.

About Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions

We are an independent recruitment agency specialising in legal and accountancy recruitment across the UK. We pride ourselves on our ethical practices, transparency, and personalised service. We provide comprehensive support including CV reviews, interview preparation, and career coaching throughout the recruitment process.

Our commitment: We prioritise candidate alignment over quick placements, ensuring the right fit for both candidate and client.

Senior Corporate Lawyer

Salary: £60,000 - £80,000 + Excellent Benefits

Location: Keighley Area, Yorkshire 

Are you ready to step into a leadership role with a clear succession plan? This is your opportunity to become Head of Department within an established Yorkshire law firm.

Our client, a well-established Yorkshire-based law firm with a rich heritage and diverse client portfolio spanning Industry, Manufacturing, and Commercial sectors, is seeking an ambitious Senior Corporate Lawyer as part of a strategic succession plan. With the current Head of Corporate Department approaching retirement, this role offers a genuine pathway to departmental leadership within a supportive, established firm.

Why This Role Stands Out

Clear Succession Plan – Join with a defined pathway to Head of Department as the current head prepares for retirement. This isn't a distant possibility – it's a structured succession opportunity.

Leadership from Day One – Take ownership of a varied corporate caseload whilst mentoring junior team members and shaping the department's future direction.

Genuine Flexibility – Based in Keighley with the option to work with the firm to establish a new satellite office in your preferred location.

Established Platform – Step into a department with strong foundations, loyal clients, and a reputation built over many years, ready for you to lead into the future.

The Role: What You'll Be Doing

As Senior Corporate Lawyer, you will manage a high-quality caseload of corporate and commercial matters whilst preparing to take on departmental leadership responsibilities.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Managing your own caseload of corporate and commercial matters independently, including company formations, share sales and purchases, commercial contracts, shareholder agreements, and business restructures

• Advising clients across Industry, Manufacturing, and Commercial sectors on a broad range of corporate transactions and commercial matters

• Mentoring and supervising junior lawyers (NQ solicitor and apprentice) who will form the foundation of the department's future

• Building strong client relationships and acting as a trusted adviser to established and growing businesses

• Contributing to business development through networking, client development, and thought leadership

• Playing a key role in succession planning and preparing for Head of Department responsibilities

• Being office-based 3 days per week to provide hands-on mentorship and team development

• Shaping the strategic direction of the corporate department in collaboration with firm leadership

What We're Looking For

Essential Requirements

• Qualified Solicitor with 5+ years PQE in Corporate & Commercial Law

• Strong technical expertise in corporate transactions (company formations, share sales/purchases, M&A, commercial contracts, shareholder agreements, business restructures)

• Proven track record of managing a varied corporate caseload independently with minimal supervision

• Experience mentoring and developing junior lawyers or trainees

• Excellent client relationship management and communication skills

• Commercial awareness and pragmatic, solutions-focused approach to client advice

• Leadership ambition with genuine interest in progressing to Head of Department

• Commitment to hybrid working (3 days office-based, 2 days flexible)

• Based in or willing to relocate to Keighley or surrounding Yorkshire areas

Highly Desirable

• Sector experience working with Industry, Manufacturing, or Commercial clients

• Demonstrated business development success in corporate law

• Experience in succession planning or departmental leadership roles

• Track record of team development and building high-performing legal teams

• Strong negotiation skills and experience handling complex transactions

• Involvement in strategic planning or departmental management

What's on Offer: Your Benefits Package

Salary: £60,000 - £80,000 (dependent on experience, PQE, and leadership readiness)

Career Development:

• Clear succession pathway to Head of Corporate Department (structured timeline)

• Leadership responsibilities from day one with mentorship and strategic input

• Partnership potential as the department and your role develop

• Full support for professional development and leadership training

• Autonomy to shape the department's future direction and growth strategy

Working Arrangements:

• Hybrid working model – 3 days office-based, 2 days flexible (home or alternative location)

• Flexible office location – based in Keighley with option to establish a satellite office

• Modern working environment with supportive infrastructure

Professional Benefits:

• Established client base – inherit strong relationships and loyal clients

• Junior team support – NQ solicitor and apprentice to assist with your caseload

• Strong firm reputation – leverage decades of goodwill and client trust

• Diverse client base – work with Industry, Manufacturing, and Commercial sector clients across Yorkshire

• CPD and training support – ongoing professional development and leadership training

Additional Benefits:

• Competitive salary with scope for performance-based increases and progression

• Pension scheme with employer contributions

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

• Professional subscriptions covered (Law Society, SRA fees)

• Supportive, collaborative culture within an established firm

• Parking available at office location

About Our Client

Our client is a well-established Yorkshire law firm with a history spanning many years and a strong reputation for delivering high-quality legal services. They work with a diverse portfolio of clients across Industry, Manufacturing, and Commercial sectors, providing bespoke legal solutions with a personal touch.

The firm is at a pivotal stage with the current Head of Corporate Department. This creates a unique opportunity for an ambitious corporate lawyer to step into a leadership role with full support, established foundations, and a clear succession timeline.

Location & Working Arrangements

Office Location: Keighley, West Yorkshire

Satellite Office Option: The firm is open to establishing a new satellite office in a location that suits the right candidate, providing genuine flexibility for your work-life balance.

Hybrid Working: 3 days office-based (for team mentorship, client meetings, and departmental leadership), 2 days flexible working from home or alternative location.

Parking: Available at office location.

Commutable From: Bradford, Skipton, Halifax, Leeds, Shipley, Bingley, and surrounding West Yorkshire areas.

How to Apply

If you're an experienced Corporate Lawyer with 5+ years PQE looking for a senior role with a clear succession plan to Head of Department, we want to hear from you.

This is a rare opportunity to join an established firm with genuine leadership progression, supportive foundations, and the autonomy to shape a department's future.

Take the Next Step

For a confidential discussion about this succession planning opportunity, please contact:

Lee Hawthorne-Finch

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions

Email: lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.comPhone: 0333 996 2882

All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. We provide full transparency throughout the recruitment process, and all candidates are contacted only with written consent.

About Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions

We are an independent recruitment agency specialising in legal and accountancy recruitment across the UK. We pride ourselves on our ethical practices, transparency, and personalised service. We provide comprehensive support including CV reviews, interview preparation, and career coaching throughout the recruitment process.

Our commitment: We prioritise candidate alignment over quick placements, ensuring the right fit for both candidate and client.

Senior Corporate Lawyer

Salary: £60,000 - £80,000 + Excellent Benefits

Location: Bradford 

Clear Path to Head of Department

Are you ready to step into a leadership role with a clear succession plan? This is your opportunity to become Head of Department within an established Yorkshire law firm.

Our client, a well-established Yorkshire-based law firm with a rich heritage and diverse client portfolio spanning Industry, Manufacturing, and Commercial sectors, is seeking an ambitious Senior Corporate Lawyer as part of a strategic succession plan. With the current Head of Corporate Department approaching retirement, this role offers a genuine pathway to departmental leadership within a supportive, established firm.

Why This Role Stands Out

Clear Succession Plan – Join with a defined pathway to Head of Department as the current head prepares for retirement. This isn't a distant possibility – it's a structured succession opportunity.

Leadership from Day One – Take ownership of a varied corporate caseload whilst mentoring junior team members and shaping the department's future direction.

Genuine Flexibility – Based in Bradford with the option to work with the firm to establish a new satellite office in your preferred location.

Established Platform – Step into a department with strong foundations, loyal clients, and a reputation built over many years, ready for you to lead into the future.

The Role: What You'll Be Doing

As Senior Corporate Lawyer, you will manage a high-quality caseload of corporate and commercial matters whilst preparing to take on departmental leadership responsibilities.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Managing your own caseload of corporate and commercial matters independently, including company formations, share sales and purchases, commercial contracts, shareholder agreements, and business restructures

• Advising clients across Industry, Manufacturing, and Commercial sectors on a broad range of corporate transactions and commercial matters

• Mentoring and supervising junior lawyers (NQ solicitor and apprentice) who will form the foundation of the department's future

• Building strong client relationships and acting as a trusted adviser to established and growing businesses

• Contributing to business development through networking, client development, and thought leadership

• Playing a key role in succession planning and preparing for Head of Department responsibilities

• Being office-based 3 days per week to provide hands-on mentorship and team development

• Shaping the strategic direction of the corporate department in collaboration with firm leadership

What We're Looking For

Essential Requirements

• Qualified Solicitor with 5+ years PQE in Corporate & Commercial Law

• Strong technical expertise in corporate transactions (company formations, share sales/purchases, M&A, commercial contracts, shareholder agreements, business restructures)

• Proven track record of managing a varied corporate caseload independently with minimal supervision

• Experience mentoring and developing junior lawyers or trainees

• Excellent client relationship management and communication skills

• Commercial awareness and pragmatic, solutions-focused approach to client advice

• Leadership ambition with genuine interest in progressing to Head of Department

• Commitment to hybrid working (3 days office-based, 2 days flexible)

• Based in or willing to relocate to Bradford or surrounding Yorkshire areas

Highly Desirable

• Sector experience working with Industry, Manufacturing, or Commercial clients

• Demonstrated business development success in corporate law

• Experience in succession planning or departmental leadership roles

• Track record of team development and building high-performing legal teams

• Strong negotiation skills and experience handling complex transactions

• Involvement in strategic planning or departmental management

What's on Offer: Your Benefits Package

Salary: £60,000 - £80,000 (dependent on experience, PQE, and leadership readiness)

Career Development:

• Clear succession pathway to Head of Corporate Department (structured timeline)

• Leadership responsibilities from day one with mentorship and strategic input

• Partnership potential as the department and your role develop

• Full support for professional development and leadership training

• Autonomy to shape the department's future direction and growth strategy

Working Arrangements:

• Hybrid working model – 3 days office-based, 2 days flexible (home or alternative location)

• Flexible office location – based in Bradford with option to establish a satellite office

• Modern working environment with supportive infrastructure

Professional Benefits:

• Established client base – inherit strong relationships and loyal clients

• Junior team support – NQ solicitor and apprentice to assist with your caseload

• Strong firm reputation – leverage decades of goodwill and client trust

• Diverse client base – work with Industry, Manufacturing, and Commercial sector clients across Yorkshire

• CPD and training support – ongoing professional development and leadership training

Additional Benefits:

• Competitive salary with scope for performance-based increases and progression

• Pension scheme with employer contributions

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

• Professional subscriptions covered (Law Society, SRA fees)

• Supportive, collaborative culture within an established firm

• Parking available at office location

About Our Client

Our client is a well-established Yorkshire law firm with a history spanning many years and a strong reputation for delivering high-quality legal services. They work with a diverse portfolio of clients across Industry, Manufacturing, and Commercial sectors, providing bespoke legal solutions with a personal touch.

The firm is at a pivotal stage with the current Head of Corporate Department. This creates a unique opportunity for an ambitious corporate lawyer to step into a leadership role with full support, established foundations, and a clear succession timeline.

Location & Working Arrangements

Office Location: Bradford, West Yorkshire

Satellite Office Option: The firm is open to establishing a new satellite office in a location that suits the right candidate, providing genuine flexibility for your work-life balance.

Hybrid Working: 3 days office-based (for team mentorship, client meetings, and departmental leadership), 2 days flexible working from home or alternative location.

Parking: Available at office location.

Commutable From: Leeds, Halifax, Keighley, Huddersfield, Wakefield, Shipley, and surrounding West Yorkshire areas.

How to Apply

If you're an experienced Corporate Lawyer with 5+ years PQE looking for a senior role with a clear succession plan to Head of Department, we want to hear from you.

This is a rare opportunity to join an established firm with genuine leadership progression, supportive foundations, and the autonomy to shape a department's future.

Take the Next Step

For a confidential discussion about this succession planning opportunity, please contact:

Lee Hawthorne-Finch

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions

Email: lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.comPhone: 0333 996 2882

All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. We provide full transparency throughout the recruitment process, and all candidates are contacted only with written consent.

About Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions

We are an independent recruitment agency specialising in legal and accountancy recruitment across the UK. We pride ourselves on our ethical practices, transparency, and personalised service. We provide comprehensive support including CV reviews, interview preparation, and career coaching throughout the recruitment process.

Our commitment: We prioritise candidate alignment over quick placements, ensuring the right fit for both candidate and client.

Wills, Trusts and Probate Solicitor

Salary: £38,000 – £48,000 (DOE)

Location: Skipton

Experience: 2–5 years’ PQE (Wills, Trusts & Probate)

An excellent opportunity has arisen for a Wills, Trusts and Probate Solicitor to join our client’s respected Private Client team in Skipton. This role is ideal for a solicitor with 2–5 years’ PQE seeking to develop their career with a well-established Yorkshire firm known for its client-focused, supportive culture.

The Opportunity:

• Manage a varied caseload of wills, probate, estate administration, and trust matters

• Advise clients on inheritance tax, succession planning, and asset protection

• Draft and review wills, trusts, and lasting powers of attorney

• Deliver clear, practical advice to individuals, families, and business owners

• Liaise with executors, beneficiaries, and financial advisers

• Work alongside experienced colleagues in a collaborative team environment

What We’re Looking For:

• Qualified Solicitor with 2–5 years’ PQE in wills, trusts, and probate

• Experience managing own caseload of private client matters

• Excellent client care and communication skills

• Strong organisational and time management abilities

• STEP qualification or interest in working towards it (desirable)

• Ability to work independently and as part of a close-knit team

What’s On Offer:

• Competitive salary £38,000 – £48,000 (DOE)

• Modern office in Skipton with flexible/hybrid working arrangements

• Supportive, friendly team culture

• Professional development and training opportunities

• Comprehensive benefits package in line with firm policy

About Our Client:

Our client is a highly regarded Yorkshire law firm with a strong reputation for delivering high-quality legal services to individuals and businesses. The Private Client team is known for its technical expertise, collaborative approach, and commitment to client care. The firm values professional growth, staff wellbeing, and a positive work environment.

Location & Working Arrangements:

Skipton. Full-time, permanent role. Flexible/hybrid working available. Other locations available. 

How to Apply:

Apply online or send your CV to lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com or call 0333 996 2882 for more information.

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is committed to ethical recruitment and the highest standards of confidentiality for all applicants.