Head of Commercial Dispute Resolution

🔒 Confidential Employer
Posted 19 March 2026
LOCATION
Derby
TYPE
Full-time
LEVEL
Mid-Senior level
CATEGORY
Legal
This employer holds a UK Home Office sponsor license — sponsorship for this specific role is at the employer’s discretion

SKILLS

Commercial Litigation Leadership Team Management Client Care Time Management IT Systems

FULL DESCRIPTION

The Head of Commercial Dispute Resolution will lead the team, manage a caseload, and drive business development. Responsibilities include strategic planning, team management, and client relationship management. The role is based in Derby, UK.

Key Responsibilities

Manage a varied and complex caseload of commercial litigation matters that can include:.

  • Contractual disputes.
  • Commercial property disputes.
  • Landlord & Tenant disputes.
  • Professional negligence disputes.
  • Debt Recovery disputes.

Management Responsibilities

  • Setting & presenting annual strategic plan for the Commercial Dispute Resolution department – work closely with the CEO & COO to construct team targets in relation to fees, time recording & business development;
  • Assist with annual budget review process;
  • Hold a monthly departmental meeting to report on team performance – follow up with one-to-ones as and when required;
  • Attend quarterly HOD meetings to represent the Commercial Dispute Resolution department;
  • Attend monthly one-to-ones with the CEO & COO – report on departmental priorities and financial performance;
  • Provide supervision of matters for more junior fee-earners, sign off work as and when required;
  • Oversee the Personal Development Plans for each team member, ensure individual goals are met throughout the year through mentoring and technical guidance;
  • Ensure appropriate allocation of fee-earning matters within the team – regularly assess capacity of fee-earners and delegate work effectively;
  • Proactively drive performance of the team – achieve continued financial growth YOY;
  • Assist with the recruitment process for Commercial Dispute Resolution vacancies – including proactive head hunting and drafting job specifications/adverts.

Business Development

  • Work alongside the Business Development & Marketing teams to ensure there is a cohesive and proactive strategy to managing current & prospective clients.
  • Take an active lead in managing the client experience. Attend client meetings where necessary.
  • Report regularly on business development initiatives and figures to the CEO.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

You will:

  • Be a qualified senior Commercial Litigation Solicitor with a minimum of 6 years PQE
  • Be able to manage your own senior and complex caseload
  • Have excellent leadership skills and previous experience leading a team of legal professionals
  • Demonstrate excellent commitment to client care and good technical ability
  • Have excellent time management skills and the ability to work to tight deadlines with your caseload
  • Have a sound knowledge of IT systems and processes, such as the Microsoft suite and case management systems.

*Disclosure will be required in the event that a position is offered.*

Benefits

What we offer?

  • Competitive salary
  • Bonus potential
  • Great working environment at our Derby Head offices
  • Onsite car parking
  • Career development opportunities
  • 27 days holiday plus bank holidays
  • Options to buy & sell 1 week’s holiday
  • 1 week’s holiday carry over
  • Extra day off for your birthday
  • Staff card discount scheme for local shops
  • Social days and evenings on the firm
  • Staff discounts on legal services
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