Childcare Solicitor (Head of Department)

Overview

In this role you lead and shape the Childcare practice within a national law firm in Shropshire. You will build a high-performing team, mentor lawyers, and manage a varied care-related caseload while developing client relationships. The position combines leadership, business development, and strategic growth to establish a strong presence in the regional market. You influence the strategic direction of the department and enjoy autonomy within a supportive, national infrastructure.

Pay / Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Leadership opportunity
• National firm infrastructure and support
• Hybrid/flexible working arrangements
• Excellent career progression
• High-quality and varied work

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Childcare practice
• Build and grow a high-performing team
• Recruit and mentor junior and senior lawyers
• Manage a varied, high-quality childcare caseload
• Advise parents, children, local authorities and professionals
• Handle complex care proceedings and related family matters
• Develop relationships with clients and professional contacts
• Identify growth opportunities and pursue them
• Collaborate with the wider Family team and other departments
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the practice

Key requirements

• Significant experience in Childcare law
• Strong understanding of public and/or private children matters
• Experience handling complex care proceedings
• Excellent technical and advocacy skills
• Proven leadership or management experience or ambition to lead
• Ability to develop client relationships
• Strong business development skills and commercial approach
• Panel membership/Children Law Accreditation advantageous

• leadership
• business development
• relationship building
• Childcare law
• advocacy in care proceedings
• client relationship management

…