Taylor Rose is seeking a dedicated Private Client Solicitor to join our expanding team. Delivering on our trademark 'Smart Modern Law' philosophy , you will manage a high-quality, varied caseload encompassing wills, LPAs, estate planning, complex probate, and trusts while working under a supportive hybrid working model . Supported by advanced case management technology, you will build trusted, lifelong client relationships without the burden of rigid, old-fashioned corporate constraints. Key Responsibilities: Managing a varied caseload of private client matters including wills, LPAs, probate, estate administration, trust advice and administration, and Court of Protection matters, with experience in estate planning preferred. Advising a broad client base including HNW individuals, families, elderly and vulnerable clients on complex matters, demonstrating empathy, sensitivity and a high standard of client care throughout. Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, referrers and third parties including HMRC, the Probate Registry, financial institutions, accountants and other professional advisers. Managing own caseload with a high degree of autonomy, whilst working collaboratively within the wider team. Supervising and supporting junior fee earners, trainees, paralegals and support staff, nurturing talent and fostering professional development. Meeting KPIs and managing billing, WIP and financial performance of matters, with the ability to promote commercial awareness in others. Contributing to business development, networking and the growth of the department, including developing and maintaining your own client relationships. Ensuring compliance with all regulatory and professional obligations and maintaining high standards. Championing a positive team culture and promoting the firm's values across the department. Qualifications and Skills: Qualified Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive with at least 5 years' PQE in private client work. Strong technical knowledge of wills, LPAs, probate, trusts and inheritance tax planning. Experience advising on complex matters, including HNW estates and multi-generational planning. STEP qualification or working towards STEP is desirable. Proficiency in case management systems Strong drafting, communication and organisational skills.
Jun 23, 2026
Full time
Taylor Rose is seeking a dedicated Private Client Solicitor to join our expanding team. Delivering on our trademark 'Smart Modern Law' philosophy , you will manage a high-quality, varied caseload encompassing wills, LPAs, estate planning, complex probate, and trusts while working under a supportive hybrid working model . Supported by advanced case management technology, you will build trusted, lifelong client relationships without the burden of rigid, old-fashioned corporate constraints. Key Responsibilities: Managing a varied caseload of private client matters including wills, LPAs, probate, estate administration, trust advice and administration, and Court of Protection matters, with experience in estate planning preferred. Advising a broad client base including HNW individuals, families, elderly and vulnerable clients on complex matters, demonstrating empathy, sensitivity and a high standard of client care throughout. Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, referrers and third parties including HMRC, the Probate Registry, financial institutions, accountants and other professional advisers. Managing own caseload with a high degree of autonomy, whilst working collaboratively within the wider team. Supervising and supporting junior fee earners, trainees, paralegals and support staff, nurturing talent and fostering professional development. Meeting KPIs and managing billing, WIP and financial performance of matters, with the ability to promote commercial awareness in others. Contributing to business development, networking and the growth of the department, including developing and maintaining your own client relationships. Ensuring compliance with all regulatory and professional obligations and maintaining high standards. Championing a positive team culture and promoting the firm's values across the department. Qualifications and Skills: Qualified Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive with at least 5 years' PQE in private client work. Strong technical knowledge of wills, LPAs, probate, trusts and inheritance tax planning. Experience advising on complex matters, including HNW estates and multi-generational planning. STEP qualification or working towards STEP is desirable. Proficiency in case management systems Strong drafting, communication and organisational skills.
Why Nelsons and Lawfront? Nelsons is one of the largest and fastest growing law firms in the East Midlands with experts in Derby, Leicester and Nottingham. In 2023, Nelsons became part of Lawfront, a national group of leading regional law firms dedicated to delivering comprehensive legal support to individuals and businesses nationwide. Committed to strategic growth, Lawfront is aiming to build a group in the top 10 of UK regional law firms. As part of this group, you will be able to benefit from working locally for a well-respected leading law firm whilst accessing the scale, investment resources, expertise and professional development opportunities of a national organisation. We look to empower our clients, give them a voice, fight for them, help them seek justice and steer them through complex legal issues they face. The desire to push ourselves forwards to better serve our clients has been a constant throughout our evolution. With a defined vision and plan for growth, we have created a culture of working together to achieve and are looking to recruit people with ambition, drive and a can-do attitude to be part of our journey. The successful candidate can expect a competitive package and benefits that you would expect from a leading regional law firm which is part of a group of national scale. The Opportunity: We're offering an exciting opportunity for a Trainee Solicitor to join our Real Estate Team in Derby and contribute to the ongoing success of our firm. This two-year training contract provides hands-on experience within the area of Real Estate/Property Law, giving you exposure to a wide range of work and direct client interaction. At Nelsons, we pride ourselves on a supportive and collaborative culture. Alongside comprehensive training and professional development, you will enjoy a positive work-life balance and opportunities to get involved in initiatives such as fundraising and community projects. What We're Looking For: Academic Excellence: A strong academic background, typically a qualifying law degree (or conversion course) and completion of the LPC or SQE 1. Attention to Detail: Accuracy and precision in handling legal documents and information. Communication Skills: Clear and confident written and verbal communication, with the ability to simplify complex legal concepts. Organisation: Effective time management and the ability to prioritise a busy workload. What We Offer: Competitive salary 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays Option to buy annual leave An additional day off for wellbeing or your birthday 4% pension contributions Healthcare cash plan Income protection and life cover Access to a personalised benefits portal with lifestyle and wellbeing perks As part of the Lawfront group, Nelsons is backed by national investment in technology, people, and long-term growth. This means you will benefit from modern systems, enhanced learning and development opportunities, and the support of a wider legal network, while still enjoying the hands-on experience, close supervision, and strong community focus of a regional firm. Together, this combination gives you the tools, exposure and support you need to build a successful and sustainable legal career. If you meet the criteria and are ready to take the next step in your legal career, please submit your CV and covering letter via the our application portal, telling us about your experience and what you can bring to the role. In addition, there is are some questions on the application form that we would like you to complete so that we can find out a little more about you. Application Deadline - 18 July 2026 For any questions, contact
Jun 23, 2026
Full time
Why Nelsons and Lawfront? Nelsons is one of the largest and fastest growing law firms in the East Midlands with experts in Derby, Leicester and Nottingham. In 2023, Nelsons became part of Lawfront, a national group of leading regional law firms dedicated to delivering comprehensive legal support to individuals and businesses nationwide. Committed to strategic growth, Lawfront is aiming to build a group in the top 10 of UK regional law firms. As part of this group, you will be able to benefit from working locally for a well-respected leading law firm whilst accessing the scale, investment resources, expertise and professional development opportunities of a national organisation. We look to empower our clients, give them a voice, fight for them, help them seek justice and steer them through complex legal issues they face. The desire to push ourselves forwards to better serve our clients has been a constant throughout our evolution. With a defined vision and plan for growth, we have created a culture of working together to achieve and are looking to recruit people with ambition, drive and a can-do attitude to be part of our journey. The successful candidate can expect a competitive package and benefits that you would expect from a leading regional law firm which is part of a group of national scale. The Opportunity: We're offering an exciting opportunity for a Trainee Solicitor to join our Real Estate Team in Derby and contribute to the ongoing success of our firm. This two-year training contract provides hands-on experience within the area of Real Estate/Property Law, giving you exposure to a wide range of work and direct client interaction. At Nelsons, we pride ourselves on a supportive and collaborative culture. Alongside comprehensive training and professional development, you will enjoy a positive work-life balance and opportunities to get involved in initiatives such as fundraising and community projects. What We're Looking For: Academic Excellence: A strong academic background, typically a qualifying law degree (or conversion course) and completion of the LPC or SQE 1. Attention to Detail: Accuracy and precision in handling legal documents and information. Communication Skills: Clear and confident written and verbal communication, with the ability to simplify complex legal concepts. Organisation: Effective time management and the ability to prioritise a busy workload. What We Offer: Competitive salary 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays Option to buy annual leave An additional day off for wellbeing or your birthday 4% pension contributions Healthcare cash plan Income protection and life cover Access to a personalised benefits portal with lifestyle and wellbeing perks As part of the Lawfront group, Nelsons is backed by national investment in technology, people, and long-term growth. This means you will benefit from modern systems, enhanced learning and development opportunities, and the support of a wider legal network, while still enjoying the hands-on experience, close supervision, and strong community focus of a regional firm. Together, this combination gives you the tools, exposure and support you need to build a successful and sustainable legal career. If you meet the criteria and are ready to take the next step in your legal career, please submit your CV and covering letter via the our application portal, telling us about your experience and what you can bring to the role. In addition, there is are some questions on the application form that we would like you to complete so that we can find out a little more about you. Application Deadline - 18 July 2026 For any questions, contact
Andy File Associates Limited is working as a Recruitment Agency on behalf of our client with regards to this permanent position. Job Title: Head of Employment Law Location: Sheffield Reports to: Head of Legal Practice Hours: 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday (office-based) Salary: Attractive Salary The Role Our client is seeking an experienced and commercially minded Head of Employment Law to provide strategic and operational leadership across its Employment Department. This is a senior leadership role responsible for ensuring the delivery of a high-quality, efficient and risk-aware service to members, key stakeholders. Working closely with the senior management team, you will play a key role in shaping service delivery, driving continuous improvement, enhancing systems and workflows, and developing the capability and performance of the department. Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Operational Management Operate as a senior leader within the management team, contributing to organisational strategy, service development and future planning. Ensure appropriate systems, controls and governance arrangements are in place to deliver consistent, high-quality services. Lead the continuous review and improvement of processes, workflows, controls and risk management frameworks. Ensure compliance with audit requirements, regulatory standards, KPIs, service levels and quality standards. Act as a senior point of reference on employment law practice, decision-making and service standards. Support complex caseloads where required. People Leadership & Performance Management Provide day-to-day leadership and oversight of the Employment Department. Manage workloads, caseload allocation, resourcing, capacity planning, holidays, sickness and absence. Embed and maintain a robust performance management framework, including objectives, quality reviews, supervision and regular one-to-ones. Coach, mentor and develop fee earners, building leadership capability, accountability and resilience. Support career development pathways, including trainees and colleagues seeking progression. Design and implement training and development initiatives covering legal, leadership and soft skills. Client Service & Stakeholder Management Maintain and strengthen relationships, regional representatives and external partners. Ensure consistently high standards of communication with members, colleagues and stakeholders. Handle complaints, risk issues and negligence allegations effectively, ensuring lessons learned are embedded. Deliver training sessions, briefings and updates and workplace representatives. Promote a culture of excellent service delivery and continuous improvement. Systems, Innovation & Continuous Improvement Lead and support the development of the case management system and workflow efficiencies. Identify opportunities to improve service delivery, productivity, quality and client experience. Support innovation and change initiatives aligned with organisational objectives. Drive process transformation and operational improvements across the department. About You You will possess: Strong leadership and people management skills. A strategic mindset combined with a hands-on operational approach. Excellent organisational and prioritisation skills. High levels of professionalism, integrity and resilience. Strong coaching, mentoring and development capabilities. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. A pragmatic and solutions-focused approach. A commitment to continuous improvement and delivering exceptional service. Experience Required Proven experience leading large and multidisciplinary teams. Significant experience and working knowledge of employment law and practice, including advisory and case management work. Demonstrable experience of performance management, quality assurance and service delivery. Experience working strategically and operationally. Strong stakeholder management experience within a legal or trade union environment. Experience leading systems, process improvement or transformation programmes. Experience collecting and analysing evidence, researching the law, determining prospects and progressing matters efficiently. Experience developing people and building high-performing teams. Qualifications and Technical Skills Qualified Solicitor (or equivalent). Strong technical knowledge of employment law and practice. Excellent decision-making and problem-solving skills. Strong organisational and leadership capabilities. Ability to manage competing priorities and perform effectively under pressure. Commitment to continuous learning and service excellence. Benefits 35-hour working week, Monday to Friday (office based) 25 days' holiday plus bank holidays, increasing by one day per year of service up to a maximum of 31 days Death in service benefit (4 x salary) Enhanced maternity and shared parental leave Free parking 4% employer pension contribution Simply Health scheme with employer and employee contributions Anytime GP service Employee Assistance Programme Probate and Estate Planning support Costco membership card Company sick pay (8 weeks full pay and 8 weeks half pay following successful completion of probation)
Jun 23, 2026
Full time
Andy File Associates Limited is working as a Recruitment Agency on behalf of our client with regards to this permanent position. Job Title: Head of Employment Law Location: Sheffield Reports to: Head of Legal Practice Hours: 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday (office-based) Salary: Attractive Salary The Role Our client is seeking an experienced and commercially minded Head of Employment Law to provide strategic and operational leadership across its Employment Department. This is a senior leadership role responsible for ensuring the delivery of a high-quality, efficient and risk-aware service to members, key stakeholders. Working closely with the senior management team, you will play a key role in shaping service delivery, driving continuous improvement, enhancing systems and workflows, and developing the capability and performance of the department. Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Operational Management Operate as a senior leader within the management team, contributing to organisational strategy, service development and future planning. Ensure appropriate systems, controls and governance arrangements are in place to deliver consistent, high-quality services. Lead the continuous review and improvement of processes, workflows, controls and risk management frameworks. Ensure compliance with audit requirements, regulatory standards, KPIs, service levels and quality standards. Act as a senior point of reference on employment law practice, decision-making and service standards. Support complex caseloads where required. People Leadership & Performance Management Provide day-to-day leadership and oversight of the Employment Department. Manage workloads, caseload allocation, resourcing, capacity planning, holidays, sickness and absence. Embed and maintain a robust performance management framework, including objectives, quality reviews, supervision and regular one-to-ones. Coach, mentor and develop fee earners, building leadership capability, accountability and resilience. Support career development pathways, including trainees and colleagues seeking progression. Design and implement training and development initiatives covering legal, leadership and soft skills. Client Service & Stakeholder Management Maintain and strengthen relationships, regional representatives and external partners. Ensure consistently high standards of communication with members, colleagues and stakeholders. Handle complaints, risk issues and negligence allegations effectively, ensuring lessons learned are embedded. Deliver training sessions, briefings and updates and workplace representatives. Promote a culture of excellent service delivery and continuous improvement. Systems, Innovation & Continuous Improvement Lead and support the development of the case management system and workflow efficiencies. Identify opportunities to improve service delivery, productivity, quality and client experience. Support innovation and change initiatives aligned with organisational objectives. Drive process transformation and operational improvements across the department. About You You will possess: Strong leadership and people management skills. A strategic mindset combined with a hands-on operational approach. Excellent organisational and prioritisation skills. High levels of professionalism, integrity and resilience. Strong coaching, mentoring and development capabilities. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. A pragmatic and solutions-focused approach. A commitment to continuous improvement and delivering exceptional service. Experience Required Proven experience leading large and multidisciplinary teams. Significant experience and working knowledge of employment law and practice, including advisory and case management work. Demonstrable experience of performance management, quality assurance and service delivery. Experience working strategically and operationally. Strong stakeholder management experience within a legal or trade union environment. Experience leading systems, process improvement or transformation programmes. Experience collecting and analysing evidence, researching the law, determining prospects and progressing matters efficiently. Experience developing people and building high-performing teams. Qualifications and Technical Skills Qualified Solicitor (or equivalent). Strong technical knowledge of employment law and practice. Excellent decision-making and problem-solving skills. Strong organisational and leadership capabilities. Ability to manage competing priorities and perform effectively under pressure. Commitment to continuous learning and service excellence. Benefits 35-hour working week, Monday to Friday (office based) 25 days' holiday plus bank holidays, increasing by one day per year of service up to a maximum of 31 days Death in service benefit (4 x salary) Enhanced maternity and shared parental leave Free parking 4% employer pension contribution Simply Health scheme with employer and employee contributions Anytime GP service Employee Assistance Programme Probate and Estate Planning support Costco membership card Company sick pay (8 weeks full pay and 8 weeks half pay following successful completion of probation)
Head of Childcare Department (Senior Solicitor) Location: Coventry, West Midlands Salary: Competitive + Leadership Package + Bonus Opportunities Contract: Full-Time, Permanent About the Opportunity An exceptional opportunity has arisen for an experienced Childcare Solicitor to lead and develop a well-established Childcare Department within a nationally recognised law firm. This role offers the chance to join a growing and ambitious practice with a strong reputation for excellence in publicly funded family and childcare work. The firm is recognised by leading independent legal directories and has developed a reputation for delivering outstanding client care, high-quality legal services and meaningful career progression opportunities. The childcare team has experienced significant growth in recent years and continues to invest heavily in its people, infrastructure and regional presence. The successful candidate will play a key strategic role in establishing and leading the Coventry Childcare Department, driving growth, supervising and mentoring lawyers, and maintaining the highest standards of client service and legal excellence. The Role As Head of Department, you will: Lead and manage a busy Childcare and Public Law Children team. Conduct your own caseload of complex childcare matters, including: Care Proceedings Supervision Orders Emergency Protection Orders Special Guardianship Orders Adoption Proceedings Deprivation of Liberty matters Cases involving non-accidental injuries, abuse, neglect and safeguarding concerns. Develop and implement the department's strategic growth plans. Recruit, supervise and mentor solicitors, legal executives, trainees and support staff. Maintain compliance with Legal Aid Agency requirements and professional standards. Build and strengthen relationships with local authorities, guardians, barristers and other stakeholders. Contribute to business development, networking and profile-raising activities across the region. Work closely with senior management on departmental performance, budgeting and growth initiatives. About You We are seeking an ambitious and commercially aware leader who combines technical excellence with a genuine passion for childcare law. You will ideally possess: A minimum of 8 years' PQE in Childcare/Public Law Children work. Law Society Children Panel Accreditation (essential). Significant advocacy and case management experience. Experience supervising and mentoring junior lawyers. A proven track record of managing complex and sensitive childcare matters. Strong leadership, organisational and business development skills. Excellent client care and communication abilities. A desire to build and lead a successful regional team. What We Offer The opportunity to lead and shape a department with genuine autonomy. A strong pipeline of publicly funded childcare work. Access to an established national network of specialist family and childcare lawyers. High-quality administrative and management support. Flexible and hybrid working arrangements. Clear career progression at senior leadership level. Competitive salary and benefits package. Ongoing professional development and leadership training. Why Join Us? This is an opportunity to join a progressive, people-focused law firm that combines the resources and reputation of a national practice with the culture and accessibility of a regional firm. The organisation is recognised for its expertise in family and childcare law, commitment to legal aid work, and investment in the growth of its lawyers and departments. The firm has received recognition from both Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners and continues to expand its childcare offering across England. If you are an experienced Childcare Solicitor looking for the opportunity to lead, influence strategy and build a thriving department within a highly regarded firm, please get in touch with Rory Brand at Simpson Judge today for a highly confidential chat.
Jun 19, 2026
Full time
Head of Childcare Department (Senior Solicitor) Location: Coventry, West Midlands Salary: Competitive + Leadership Package + Bonus Opportunities Contract: Full-Time, Permanent About the Opportunity An exceptional opportunity has arisen for an experienced Childcare Solicitor to lead and develop a well-established Childcare Department within a nationally recognised law firm. This role offers the chance to join a growing and ambitious practice with a strong reputation for excellence in publicly funded family and childcare work. The firm is recognised by leading independent legal directories and has developed a reputation for delivering outstanding client care, high-quality legal services and meaningful career progression opportunities. The childcare team has experienced significant growth in recent years and continues to invest heavily in its people, infrastructure and regional presence. The successful candidate will play a key strategic role in establishing and leading the Coventry Childcare Department, driving growth, supervising and mentoring lawyers, and maintaining the highest standards of client service and legal excellence. The Role As Head of Department, you will: Lead and manage a busy Childcare and Public Law Children team. Conduct your own caseload of complex childcare matters, including: Care Proceedings Supervision Orders Emergency Protection Orders Special Guardianship Orders Adoption Proceedings Deprivation of Liberty matters Cases involving non-accidental injuries, abuse, neglect and safeguarding concerns. Develop and implement the department's strategic growth plans. Recruit, supervise and mentor solicitors, legal executives, trainees and support staff. Maintain compliance with Legal Aid Agency requirements and professional standards. Build and strengthen relationships with local authorities, guardians, barristers and other stakeholders. Contribute to business development, networking and profile-raising activities across the region. Work closely with senior management on departmental performance, budgeting and growth initiatives. About You We are seeking an ambitious and commercially aware leader who combines technical excellence with a genuine passion for childcare law. You will ideally possess: A minimum of 8 years' PQE in Childcare/Public Law Children work. Law Society Children Panel Accreditation (essential). Significant advocacy and case management experience. Experience supervising and mentoring junior lawyers. A proven track record of managing complex and sensitive childcare matters. Strong leadership, organisational and business development skills. Excellent client care and communication abilities. A desire to build and lead a successful regional team. What We Offer The opportunity to lead and shape a department with genuine autonomy. A strong pipeline of publicly funded childcare work. Access to an established national network of specialist family and childcare lawyers. High-quality administrative and management support. Flexible and hybrid working arrangements. Clear career progression at senior leadership level. Competitive salary and benefits package. Ongoing professional development and leadership training. Why Join Us? This is an opportunity to join a progressive, people-focused law firm that combines the resources and reputation of a national practice with the culture and accessibility of a regional firm. The organisation is recognised for its expertise in family and childcare law, commitment to legal aid work, and investment in the growth of its lawyers and departments. The firm has received recognition from both Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners and continues to expand its childcare offering across England. If you are an experienced Childcare Solicitor looking for the opportunity to lead, influence strategy and build a thriving department within a highly regarded firm, please get in touch with Rory Brand at Simpson Judge today for a highly confidential chat.
Head of Childcare Department (Senior Solicitor) Location: Coventry, West Midlands Salary: Competitive + Leadership Package + Bonus Opportunities Contract: Full-Time, Permanent About the Opportunity An exceptional opportunity has arisen for an experienced Childcare Solicitor to lead and develop a well-established Childcare Department within a nationally recognised law firm. This role offers the chance to join a growing and ambitious practice with a strong reputation for excellence in publicly funded family and childcare work. The firm is recognised by leading independent legal directories and has developed a reputation for delivering outstanding client care, high-quality legal services and meaningful career progression opportunities. The childcare team has experienced significant growth in recent years and continues to invest heavily in its people, infrastructure and regional presence. The successful candidate will play a key strategic role in establishing and leading the Coventry Childcare Department, driving growth, supervising and mentoring lawyers, and maintaining the highest standards of client service and legal excellence. The Role As Head of Department, you will: Lead and manage a busy Childcare and Public Law Children team. Conduct your own caseload of complex childcare matters, including: Care Proceedings Supervision Orders Emergency Protection Orders Special Guardianship Orders Adoption Proceedings Deprivation of Liberty matters Cases involving non-accidental injuries, abuse, neglect and safeguarding concerns. Develop and implement the department's strategic growth plans. Recruit, supervise and mentor solicitors, legal executives, trainees and support staff. Maintain compliance with Legal Aid Agency requirements and professional standards. Build and strengthen relationships with local authorities, guardians, barristers and other stakeholders. Contribute to business development, networking and profile-raising activities across the region. Work closely with senior management on departmental performance, budgeting and growth initiatives. About You We are seeking an ambitious and commercially aware leader who combines technical excellence with a genuine passion for childcare law. You will ideally possess: A minimum of 8 years' PQE in Childcare/Public Law Children work. Law Society Children Panel Accreditation (essential). Significant advocacy and case management experience. Experience supervising and mentoring junior lawyers. A proven track record of managing complex and sensitive childcare matters. Strong leadership, organisational and business development skills. Excellent client care and communication abilities. A desire to build and lead a successful regional team. What We Offer The opportunity to lead and shape a department with genuine autonomy. A strong pipeline of publicly funded childcare work. Access to an established national network of specialist family and childcare lawyers. High-quality administrative and management support. Flexible and hybrid working arrangements. Clear career progression at senior leadership level. Competitive salary and benefits package. Ongoing professional development and leadership training. Why Join Us? This is an opportunity to join a progressive, people-focused law firm that combines the resources and reputation of a national practice with the culture and accessibility of a regional firm. The organisation is recognised for its expertise in family and childcare law, commitment to legal aid work, and investment in the growth of its lawyers and departments. The firm has received recognition from both Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners and continues to expand its childcare offering across England. If you are an experienced Childcare Solicitor looking for the opportunity to lead, influence strategy and build a thriving department within a highly regarded firm, please get in touch with Rory Brand from Simpson Judge today for a highly confidential chat.
Jun 19, 2026
Full time
Head of Childcare Department (Senior Solicitor) Location: Coventry, West Midlands Salary: Competitive + Leadership Package + Bonus Opportunities Contract: Full-Time, Permanent About the Opportunity An exceptional opportunity has arisen for an experienced Childcare Solicitor to lead and develop a well-established Childcare Department within a nationally recognised law firm. This role offers the chance to join a growing and ambitious practice with a strong reputation for excellence in publicly funded family and childcare work. The firm is recognised by leading independent legal directories and has developed a reputation for delivering outstanding client care, high-quality legal services and meaningful career progression opportunities. The childcare team has experienced significant growth in recent years and continues to invest heavily in its people, infrastructure and regional presence. The successful candidate will play a key strategic role in establishing and leading the Coventry Childcare Department, driving growth, supervising and mentoring lawyers, and maintaining the highest standards of client service and legal excellence. The Role As Head of Department, you will: Lead and manage a busy Childcare and Public Law Children team. Conduct your own caseload of complex childcare matters, including: Care Proceedings Supervision Orders Emergency Protection Orders Special Guardianship Orders Adoption Proceedings Deprivation of Liberty matters Cases involving non-accidental injuries, abuse, neglect and safeguarding concerns. Develop and implement the department's strategic growth plans. Recruit, supervise and mentor solicitors, legal executives, trainees and support staff. Maintain compliance with Legal Aid Agency requirements and professional standards. Build and strengthen relationships with local authorities, guardians, barristers and other stakeholders. Contribute to business development, networking and profile-raising activities across the region. Work closely with senior management on departmental performance, budgeting and growth initiatives. About You We are seeking an ambitious and commercially aware leader who combines technical excellence with a genuine passion for childcare law. You will ideally possess: A minimum of 8 years' PQE in Childcare/Public Law Children work. Law Society Children Panel Accreditation (essential). Significant advocacy and case management experience. Experience supervising and mentoring junior lawyers. A proven track record of managing complex and sensitive childcare matters. Strong leadership, organisational and business development skills. Excellent client care and communication abilities. A desire to build and lead a successful regional team. What We Offer The opportunity to lead and shape a department with genuine autonomy. A strong pipeline of publicly funded childcare work. Access to an established national network of specialist family and childcare lawyers. High-quality administrative and management support. Flexible and hybrid working arrangements. Clear career progression at senior leadership level. Competitive salary and benefits package. Ongoing professional development and leadership training. Why Join Us? This is an opportunity to join a progressive, people-focused law firm that combines the resources and reputation of a national practice with the culture and accessibility of a regional firm. The organisation is recognised for its expertise in family and childcare law, commitment to legal aid work, and investment in the growth of its lawyers and departments. The firm has received recognition from both Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners and continues to expand its childcare offering across England. If you are an experienced Childcare Solicitor looking for the opportunity to lead, influence strategy and build a thriving department within a highly regarded firm, please get in touch with Rory Brand from Simpson Judge today for a highly confidential chat.
