Head of Litigation/ Partner- Leeds

Location: Leeds (Hybrid)
Salary: DOE
Annual Leave: 25 days plus bank holidays

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for an experienced and commercially focused Litigation Partner, or an ambitious senior litigator ready to take the next step into a leadership role, to head up a growing Litigation Department within a progressive and expanding firm.

This is a key strategic position, offering genuine scope to shape the direction of the department, mentor a talented team, and drive continued growth across both civil and commercial litigation work.

As Head of Litigation, you will oversee a varied caseload and provide leadership to a small but developing team, including an experienced litigator and a senior associate. The department handles a broad spectrum of contentious matters, advising individuals and businesses on disputes across civil, property, and commercial areas.

You will work closely with clients to resolve issues through negotiation, mediation, and, when necessary, litigation before the courts. The team is known for taking a pragmatic and solution-focused approach, aiming to achieve early resolution where possible while being fully prepared to progress matters through formal proceedings when required.

• Lead and manage the Litigation Department, including supervision, mentoring, and performance development.

• Handle a broad range of matters, including commercial contract disputes, shareholder and partnership disagreements, property litigation, professional negligence, and debt recovery.

• Provide strategic advice to clients and guide them through every stage of the dispute resolution process.

• Promote early settlement and alternative dispute resolution methods where appropriate.

• Oversee departmental performance, including financial targets, compliance, and quality assurance.

• Contribute to firm-wide leadership initiatives and business development strategy.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients and referral partners.

• Qualified Solicitor with solid post-qualification experience in commercial and/or general litigation.

• Strong technical expertise with a practical, commercial mindset.

• Proven ability to manage cases and mentor junior colleagues - prior leadership experience desirable but not essential.

• Excellent client-handling skills and the ability to offer clear, solution-oriented advice.

• Ambitious and collaborative, with a genuine interest in helping to grow and develop the department.

• Applications are encouraged from Senior Associates or experienced litigators seeking a step up to Partner or Head of Department level.

• Hybrid working arrangement.

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.

• Opportunity to lead a growing department within an ambitious, expanding firm.

• Competitive salary dependent on experience.

If this role is of interest to you please get in touch with Steph at Simpson Judge