At Howells, we combine fresh forward-thinking with a client-focused approach to deliver a range of award-winning, quality services. This is a new, high-impact leadership role created to accelerate the next phase of growth within our Corporate Team and the wider firm. It offers a rare opportunity for an ambitious corporate solicitor to shape, build and lead our corporate team.
Designed for an ambitious and commercially driven corporate lawyer who thrives beyond pure fee earning, this role is about building something significant, developing clients, driving revenue, leading people and influencing firm-wide strategy. You will play a central role in defining the future direction of the Corporate Team, strengthening our market profile, and positioning the firm as a go-to adviser within our chosen sectors.
As a visible leader internally and externally, you will champion growth, inspire a high-performing team, and play a key role in the firm’s long-term success.
What you’ll be doing:
- Lead and grow the corporate practice, driving client origination and revenue generation.
- Develop and execute a clear business development strategy aligned with firm-wide goals.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, referrers, and intermediaries.
- Lead pitches, tenders, and panel appointments to strengthen market position.
- Identify cross-selling opportunities and expand client relationships across the firm.
- Act as lead adviser on high-value, complex corporate transactions.
- Provide strategic, commercially focused advice to founders and boards.
- Oversee delivery of high-quality, efficient, and profitable legal services.
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing corporate team.
- Support recruitment, succession planning, and long-term team growth.
- Take responsibility for financial performance, pricing, and profitability.
- Contribute to firm-wide strategy while championing the firm’s culture and values.
What we’re looking for:
- Proven revenue generator with a strong client base, referrer network, or sustained BD track record.
- Experience operating at Legal Director, Partner, or equivalent senior level within a corporate practice.
- Demonstrated practice builder, driving new client acquisition, account growth, and market opportunities.
- Effective departmental leader, shaping strategy, mentoring lawyers, and setting standards.
- Strong commercial acumen, including pricing, budgeting, and profitability management
- Experience in contributing to departmental leadership, including hiring, growth strategy, and market positioning.
What you'll receive:
- Competitive Salary
- Annual Leave: Enjoy a competitive annual leave entitlement each holiday year, plus bank holidays and extra time off to unwind, including an additional personal day, a day off for your birthday, and a paid day during the Christmas break.
- Annual Leave Purchase Scheme: Option to buy up to 3 extra days of leave annually to support your work-life balance.
- Gym Discounts: Access discounted memberships to help you stay active and healthy.
- Growth & Development: We’re invested in your career with opportunities for learning and advancement.
- Milestone Recognition: Celebrate your dedication with recognition and awards for key milestones.
- Events: Take part in various networking, corporate, and charity events throughout the year.
- Company Car: Access to our Company vehicle for work-related travel.
- Private Medical Insurance: Giving you fast access to private healthcare, specialist consultations, and treatment when you need it most, helping you stay healthy and supported.
- Death in Service: Providing financial security and peace of mind for your loved ones.
- Refer a Friend Scheme: Get rewarded for referring talented friends and connections to join the team
Successful candidates will be subject to a basic or enhanced DBS disclosure dependent on the role. Permanent employment is conditional on having a satisfactory DBS check. You will therefore be asked to disclose any unspent convictions during the recruitment process.