At Howells, we combine a fresh and forward-thinking approach with a client-focused, local feel to deliver a range of award-winning, quality services.
We are seeking an ambitious and commercially minded Family Partner to lead the growth of our Family Law offering across the Swansea and Bridgend regions. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced family lawyer who is passionate about building a successful regional team, developing long-term client relationships and creating a high-performing team from the ground up.
Alongside managing a high-quality caseload, you will play a pivotal role in driving business development, raising the firm's profile across South Wales and identifying new opportunities for growth. Working closely with the Head of Department and wider leadership team, you will support the development and implementation of a strategic growth plan, recruit and mentor talent, and establish Howells as a leading provider of Family Law services throughout the Swansea and Bridgend markets.
What you'll be responsible for:
- Leading the strategic growth and development of the Family Department across Swansea and Bridgend.
- Supporting with the development and delivering of a regional business development strategy to increase market share and expand the firm's client base.
- Building and maintaining strong relationships with new and existing clients, professional introducers, businesses and community stakeholders.
- Acting as a visible ambassador for the firm by networking, attending events and developing referral opportunities throughout the region.
- Managing a varied and high-quality family law caseload, including complex and high-value matters, while maintaining a strong fee-earning contribution.
- Identifying and converting new business opportunities into client relationships.
- Recruiting, developing and leading a high-performing regional Family team, creating a positive and collaborative culture.
- Managing case files, correspondence and diaries in accordance with the firm's procedures, ensuring compliance with SRA requirements.
- Completing time recording, performance reviews and other management information required by the firm.
- Working collaboratively with colleagues across the business to maximise cross-referral opportunities.
- Delivering exceptional client service and maintaining the highest professional standards.
- Working confidently with the firm's Case Management System and embracing new technologies to improve efficiency.
- Completing safeguarding training and responding appropriately to safeguarding concerns in accordance with firm policies.
- Maintaining the highest levels of confidentiality and professional integrity.
- Undertaking any other reasonable duties as required by the head of department.
What we're looking for:
- Qualified Solicitor with a minimum of 8 years' PQE in Family Law.
- A proven track record of managing a broad range of complex family law matters, including divorce, financial remedy, children matters and cohabitation disputes where applicable.
- Demonstrable experience in winning new business and developing strong client and professional referral relationships.
- Strong commercial awareness with the ability to identify opportunities for sustainable business growth.
- Previous leadership or management experience, with the ability to recruit, develop and inspire high-performing teams.
- An entrepreneurial mindset with the ambition to establish and grow a leading Family Law practice across Swansea and Bridgend.
- A commitment to maintaining a significant personal fee-earning contribution while leading the department.
- Outstanding client relationship and business development skills.
- Excellent communication, negotiation and networking abilities.
- Strong organisational and case management skills.
- Excellent IT skills with the ability to quickly adapt to new systems.
- High levels of professionalism, integrity and commercial judgement.
- A collaborative approach and willingness to contribute to the wider success of the firm.
What you'll receive:
- Competitive Salary
- 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.
- 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.
Benefits:
- Additional leave
- Company events
- Referral programme
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Swansea SA1 8QY: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Application question(s):
- What are your salary expectations for this role? Please provide an annual range
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
