Commercial Litigation Lawyer - HOD - CONFIDENTIAL

Head of Commercial Litigation Essex

Salary: Competitive DOE + Benefits
Location: Essex
Position: Full-Time, Permanent

Our client, a highly regarded Essex law firm, is seeking an experienced Commercial Litigation Solicitor to lead and develop its Dispute Resolution department.

This is an excellent opportunity for a senior litigation lawyer or existing Head of Department looking to join a progressive firm and play a key role in its continued growth. The successful candidate will oversee the department, manage a high-quality caseload, drive business development, and mentor junior team members.

The Role

The successful candidate will handle a broad range of commercial litigation matters, including:

• Contract disputes

• Shareholder and partnership disputes

• Debt recovery

• Professional negligence claims

• Commercial property disputes

• Director and business disputes

• Contentious insolvency matters

• Injunctive relief applications

• Landlord and tenant disputes

• High-value and complex commercial claims

The role will involve managing matters from instruction through to resolution, including negotiation, mediation, ADR, and court proceedings where required.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading and managing the Commercial Litigation department.

• Managing a complex caseload of commercial disputes.

• Providing strategic and commercially focused legal advice.

• Supervising and mentoring junior solicitors and support staff.

• Developing and maintaining strong client relationships.

• Identifying and securing new business opportunities.

• Supporting departmental growth and profitability.

• Ensuring compliance with SRA regulations and internal procedures.

• Working collaboratively with colleagues to maximise cross-referral opportunities.

Requirements

• Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales.

• Ideally 8+ years’ PQE in Commercial Litigation.

• Strong experience handling a broad range of commercial disputes.

• Previous leadership or supervisory experience.

• Proven business development and networking skills.

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and client management abilities.

• Commercially minded with a strategic approach to litigation.

• Ability to manage complex matters independently.

The Opportunity

• Leadership role within a respected and growing firm.

• Opportunity to shape and develop the department.

• High-quality work and established client base.

• Genuine autonomy and responsibility.

• Supportive and collaborative working environment.

• Excellent career progression prospects.

• Competitive salary and benefits package.

This role would suit an ambitious senior Commercial Litigation Solicitor seeking a leadership position with the opportunity to make a significant impact on the future growth and success of the department.

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