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