Family Head of Department

REALM RECRUIT; Greater Manchester; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing childcare law firm in Greater Manchester is seeking a panel-accredited solicitor ready to step into a high-impact role. You will inherit an existing caseload and help shape the regional childcare team with a supportive culture and opportunity for progress. The ideal candidate will have experience in public law children matters and strong communication skills. This position offers a competitive salary, hybrid work arrangement, and great benefits.

Benefits

26 days holiday + your birthday off

Medicash health plan

Standard pension contribution

Structured appraisals

Qualifications

• Essential: Panel-accredited childcare solicitor.
• Experience managing public law children matters, parent and guardian work.
• Leadership potential or aspirations to progress into HOD / regional director role.

Responsibilities

• Manage and grow an existing caseload from day one.
• Provide guidance and supervision to junior staff.
• Build relationships with guardians and other professionals.
• Represent clients in court and ensure excellent client care.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Business development skills

Leadership potential

Experience managing public law children matters

Education

Panel-accredited childcare solicitor

Job description

Apply now

• Step into a senior role with immediate access to an existing caseload
• Progress toward Regional Director status
• Thrive in a no-ego, down-to-earth team with real opportunities for growth

Are you a panel-accredited solicitor or head of department ready to step into a high-impact role with room to grow?

You’ll inherit a live caseload and play a key part in shaping the regional childcare team. With a supportive culture, collaborative targets, and structured career progression, this is a standout opportunity to take ownership of your work while being backed by an experienced and growing national practice.

If you’re ambitious, people-focused and eager to make a difference, this is the move for you.

Who we’re looking for

• Panel-accredited childcare solicitor (essential)
• Experience managing public law children matters, parent and guardian work
• Strong communication and BD skills
• Leadership potential or aspirations to progress into HOD / regional director role
• Supportive, approachable and collaborative
• Supervisory experience a bonus but not essential

What you’ll be doing

• Manage and grow an existing caseload from day one
• Provide guidance and supervision to junior staff, including a trainee
• Build relationships with guardians and other professionals
• Represent clients in court and ensure excellent client care
• Work flexibly from either the Manchester or Blackburn office

Salary & Benefits

• Competitive salary dependent on experience
• 26 days holiday + your birthday off (after 1 year)
• Medicash health plan
• Standard pension contribution
• Structured appraisals and support to achieve panel membership or promotion
• Hybrid working : 3 days office, 2 from home (adaptable to court and client needs)
• Supportive culture – no hierarchy, mutual respect across all teams
• Inclusive celebrations

Contact Mel Samson

Want to play a key part in shaping the future of a growing childcare law team in Manchester? Get in touch for a confidential chat.

📩 [e-mail]

📞 03300 245 606