Head of Dispute Resolution

Job Title: Head of Dispute ResolutionSalary: up to £95,000

Overview:

We are seeking a commercially astute and strategically minded solicitor to lead our Dispute Resolution Department. With expertise spanning both contentious and non-contentious work, the Head of Dispute Resolution will oversee a wide variety of legal services including commercial litigation, contract disputes, and corporate advisory matters. This senior role combines leadership, technical excellence, client relationship development, and business growth responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Departmental Oversight

\n
• Lead, supervise, and develop a high-performing Dispute Resolution team.
\n
• Manage workflow allocation, staff supervision, and performance reviews.
\n
• Cultivate a supportive, professional culture with an emphasis on quality, efficiency, and client care.
\n
• Drive cross-departmental collaboration,
\n
• Contribute to firmwide strategic planning as a key member of the leadership team.
\n

Legal Expertise & Casework

\n
• Handle a broad range of litigation and advisory matters, including:\n
  \n
  • Contractual and commercial disputes
  \n
  • Shareholder and partnership disputes
  \n
  • Professional negligence
  \n
  • Construction and engineering disputes
  \n
  • Contentious probate and trust matters
  \n
  • Property litigation
  \n
\n

Client Relationship Management

\n
• Maintain and develop strong relationships with new and existing clients.
\n
• Provide clear, pragmatic advice and high levels of personal service.
\n
• Uphold the firm’s reputation for responsiveness, quality, and trusted legal guidance.
\n

Compliance, Risk & Best Practice

\n
• Ensure compliance with SRA Code of Conduct, AML regulations, and firm policies.
\n
• Conduct regular file reviews and supervise case progression and risk assessments.
\n
• Support CQS, Lexcel, and other professional accreditation processes as needed.
\n

Business Development & Marketing

\n
• Actively contribute to the firm’s business development strategy.
\n
• Develop new streams of work through networking, client recommendations, and thought leadership.
\n
• Engage in speaking, writing, and professional association activities (e.g. ACTAPS, PNLA).
\n

Financial Management

\n
• Monitor and report on departmental budgets, WIP, and billing targets.
\n
• Support pricing strategies and cost estimates.
\n
• Lead on initiatives to improve profitability, client retention, and matter efficiency.
\n

Qualifications and Experience:

\n
• Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales), with at least 10+ years’ PQE.
\n
• Strong track record in both contentious and non-contentious commercial work.
\n
• Prior leadership or team management experience within a law firm environment.
\n