Salary: Excellent package & enhanced benefits
Reference: 60593
Our client, a Legal 500-recognised and highly respected law firm, is seeking an experienced Head of Childcare Department to lead its established and successful public law team.
This is a rare opportunity for an accomplished Children Panel Solicitor to step into a strategic leadership role, combining the management of a high-quality childcare caseload with the opportunity to shape, develop and inspire a dedicated team of 12 professionals, including Partners, solicitors, trainees and support staff.
Working within a collaborative and supportive environment, you'll play a pivotal role in driving the department's continued success while maintaining the exceptional client care and legal excellence for which the firm is recognised.
- Managing a complex caseload of public childcare matters, including care proceedings, emergency protection applications, special guardianship orders and related family law issues.
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Providing advocacy and representation for parents, children, guardians and other parties.
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Supervising complex and high-risk cases across the department.
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Leading, mentoring and developing solicitors, trainees and support staff.
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Monitoring departmental performance, financial management and resource allocation.
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Ensuring compliance with Legal Aid Agency requirements, SRA regulations and court deadlines.
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Conducting appraisals and supporting ongoing training and development.
You'll have:
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10+ years' PQE with extensive public childcare law experience.
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Membership of the Law Society's Children Panel.
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Excellent advocacy and case strategy skills.
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Proven experience leading and supervising legal teams.
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Strong knowledge of Legal Aid funding and compliance.
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A supportive, team-focused leadership style.
- Hybrid working.
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25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays.
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Enhanced company sick pay.
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Discretionary bonus scheme (team and individual performance).
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Regular social events throughout the year.
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A genuinely supportive, collaborative culture.
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The opportunity to lead a highly respected Legal 500-recognised Childcare team with an outstanding reputation.
If you're looking to lead a successful Childcare department within a Legal 500 law firm where your leadership will make a genuine impact, we'd love to hear from you.
