Head of Corporate/Commercial Department

Location: Stroud or Gloucester (hybrid/flexible working available)

Role Overview

A well‑established and progressive regional law firm is seeking an exceptional Head of Corporate/Commercial to lead and develop its growing department. This opportunity will particularly appeal to a senior lawyer looking for a fresh challenge, greater strategic influence, and the chance to shape a practice area with real autonomy.

The role offers an alternative to traditional partnership structures for those wanting to step away from fee‑earning alone and into a position where leadership, direction‑setting and longer‑term impact are central. As a Board‑backed department head, you will influence firm‑wide strategy, mentor future talent and play a key role in the continued expansion of the firm’s corporate and commercial offering.

For an accomplished corporate/commercial solicitor who feels ready for broader responsibility, renewed challenge and the ability to leave a lasting legacy, this role represents a compelling next step.

Key Responsibilities

Departmental Leadership & Strategy

• Setting and delivering the strategic vision for the Corporate/Commercial department in line with wider firm objectives.
• Leading, motivating and developing a team of lawyers and support staff.
• Establishing effective workflows, quality controls and compliance standards.

Client Advisory & Complex Work

• Managing a high‑quality caseload including M&A, shareholder agreements, corporate governance, commercial contracts, restructurings and joint ventures.
• Acting as a trusted advisor to SMEs, owner‑managed businesses and high‑value commercial clients.
• Maintaining hands‑on involvement in complex matters while balancing leadership responsibilities.

Business Development & Profile Building

• Developing new client relationships and strengthening existing ones to drive sustainable growth.
• Representing the department externally through networking, referrals and profile‑raising activity.
• Playing a central role in shaping and delivering firm‑wide growth initiatives.

People Development & Mentoring

• Supervising and mentoring junior lawyers, supporting progression and long‑term retention.
• Building a collaborative, high‑performing departmental culture with a clear sense of direction.

The Ideal Candidate

• Significant PQE (ideally 8+ years) with a strong mix of both corporate and commercial work.
• A senior lawyer who is motivated by influence, leadership and departmental ownership rather than title alone.
• Experience handling complex, high‑value matters with a commercial, pragmatic approach.
• A track record of developing client relationships and contributing to business growth.
• Prior experience supervising or mentoring lawyers.
• Strategic, confident and personable, with the appetite to drive change and take ownership of outcomes.

Working Arrangement & Package

• Role based in Stroud or Gloucester, with hybrid and flexible working available, particularly for candidates bringing strong and relevant experience.
• Salary will be bespoke, aligned to individual expectations and experience.
• A comprehensive benefits package and genuine scope to influence direction, culture and long‑term success.

Any candidates wanting a confidential chat about this role should contact Sam Higgins at Simpson Judge on 07770109301 or via email at sam.higgins@simpsonjudge.co.uk.