Head of Corporate/Commercial Department (8PQE+)
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 who would like a confidential chat about this role should contact Sam Higgins at Simpson Judge either on or via email at .