Our client, a highly respected solicitors firm based in Alconbury, is seeking a skilled and motivated Senior Associate specialising in Private Client matters. This role is integral to supporting the firm’s high standards in client service and offers the opportunity to manage a diverse portfolio of private client cases. The ideal candidate will be someone with substantial experience in the private client sector, exceptional client management skills, and a commitment to professional growth. Any agricultural experience would be a benefit, but not essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Client Advisory & Document Drafting: Provide comprehensive legal advice to a variety of clients. This includes negotiating terms and drafting legal documents to meet the unique needs of private clients.
• Case Management: Efficiently handle all stages of legal proceedings, ensuring the protection of client interests through meticulous management of client and matter files.
• Business Development: Actively seek new business opportunities through cross-referrals, existing clients, and professional networks, contributing to the firm’s growth.
• Target Achievement & Financial Management: Meet or exceed agreed targets for fee generation and collection, adopting a commercial approach to enhance the firm’s financial performance.
• Professional Development: Commit to ongoing professional learning to remain at the forefront of developments within the private client sector.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Specialist Client Service: Maintain an in-depth understanding of private client needs and provide tailored advice, demonstrating an ability to navigate complex client issues.
• Partner Support & Client Liaison: Collaborate closely with partners, assuming responsibility for specific work elements and interacting with clients and their financial or professional advisors.
• Independent & Collaborative Work: Operate autonomously on complex matters while also contributing to larger, multifaceted projects led by senior partners or fee earners.
• Marketing & Development Initiatives: Proactively participate in marketing strategies and business development activities, promoting the firm’s services and capabilities.
• File & Financial Management: Oversee client files, manage fee income, and ensure efficient bill collection, adhering to firm standards in service and profitability.
• Confidentiality: Exercise discretion and maintain strict client confidentiality in all matters.
• Performance Metrics: Achieve agreed targets for chargeable time, income generated, and billing.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Private Client Expertise: Proven experience working in a private client team, handling a wide array of client issues with a comprehensive understanding of the relevant legal frameworks.
• Client Relationship Development: Demonstrated ability to build and nurture client relationships, with a strong orientation towards marketing and business development.
• Communication & Problem Solving: Clear communication skills to articulate complex legal matters to clients, combined with effective problem-solving capabilities.
• Organisation & Attention to Detail: Structured approach to tasks with outstanding attention to detail, particularly in drafting and document management.
• Teamwork & Interpersonal Skills: Proven experience working effectively within a team, developing strong relationships with colleagues across practice areas.
• IT Proficiency: Tech-savvy, with a willingness to adopt and advance systems that streamline and enhance service delivery.