The Challenge:
Ortus Group was engaged by a well-regarded one-office commercial law firm in London, a loyal client with whom we have a strong ongoing relationship, to recruit an experienced Real Estate partner. The firm sought to bolster its already strong reputation in the real estate sector while increasing capacity to pursue more internal work opportunities. This hire was critical to the firm’s strategic growth and required identifying a partner with both technical expertise, cultural alignment and a strong practice.
The Approach
Recognising the unique challenges of this recruitment, Ortus Group implemented a focused search strategy:
- Market Analysis: Mapping the real estate legal landscape to identify leading practitioners with relevant experience and a strong book of business.
- Targeted Shortlisting: Curating a list of high-calibre candidates who not only excelled in real estate law but also demonstrated a preference for a one-office, boutique environment.
- Engagement and Outreach: Conducting a personalised headhunt to engage people who were likely to align with our client’s culture and aspirations.
The Solution
After an in-depth search, Ortus Group successfully identified a Senior Real Estate Partner at a national law firm who was an ideal fit. This individual:
- Possessed extensive expertise and a strong reputation in the real estate sector.
- Managed a significant portfolio of high-value clients.
- Was openminded about transitioning to a more cohesive and dynamic firm environment, having grown disillusioned with the culture in their then firm.
The Execution
Throughout the process, Ortus Group maintained close collaboration with both the client and the engaged individual. Key steps included:
- Conducting exploratory conversations to ensure alignment of goals and expectations.
- Assisting the candidate to craft a compelling business case highlighting their financial and strategic value.
- Supporting both parties through negotiations to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome.
- Providing insights and advice to address any challenges and ensure a seamless onboarding process.
The Outcome
The successful recruitment of this Senior Real Estate Partner has already begun to generate significant benefits for the firm:
- Strengthened Reputation: The partner’s market presence immediately further enhanced the firm’s standing in the competitive London real estate market.
- Increased Capacity: The additional expertise allows the firm to pursue more internal work opportunities and better serve its pre-existing clients.
- Loyal Client Base: The partner’s loyal client base has already transitioned smoothly to the new firm, contributing to its growth and client portfolio.
- Cultural Fit: The partner’s alignment with the firm’s values and environment has resulted in a seamless integration.
Both the firm and the new partner have expressed their satisfaction with the outcome of this hire. Together, they are poised to build on this success and achieve ambitious goals in 2025 and beyond.
Conclusion
This case exemplifies Ortus Group’s ability to navigate complex recruitment scenarios and deliver outstanding results for boutique and specialist law firms. By combining market expertise with a bespoke approach, we were able to deliver a solution that exceeded expectations and added long-term value to our loyal client.
Find out how our team can help you by contacting us today.
Dan Sill Co-Managing Director and Head of Legal Recruitment and Headhunting
Telephone 0330 100 5420
Email dan.sill@ortusgroup.com