Head of Department - Childcare

Harkaye Core Talent; United Kingdom; Remote; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A nationally respected law firm is seeking a visionary Head of Department – Child Care (Public Law). This senior role involves overseeing strategy, performance, and a high-performing team, with the autonomy to influence and lead within a collaborative environment. The position offers competitive compensation and supports a flexible working arrangement.

Benefits

Flexible and modern working environment

Generous compensation package with performance-driven bonus

Access to internal business support teams

Strong emphasis on wellbeing, equity, and inclusion

Qualifications

• 7+ years PQE in Child Care/Public Law.
• Proven leadership experience in a legal setting.
• Strong understanding of Legal Aid/public law practice.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage national Child Care (Public Law) department.
• Drive strategy and commercial performance.
• Develop and support a multi-disciplinary legal team.

Skills

Leadership

People Management

Communication

Commercial Acumen

Education

Qualified Solicitor or CILEX

Job description

Harkaye is exclusively partnering with a nationally respected law firm to appoint a visionary Head of Department – Child Care (Public Law). This is a senior leadership role overseeing a high-performing national care law team, with responsibility for strategy, people, performance, and growth.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

This role offers more than a title – it offers influence. You’ll play a key role in shaping the future of a high-profile department, while being supported by an infrastructure that values innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement. You’ll have the freedom to lead with autonomy, while also being part of a forward-thinking and collaborative senior team.

You’ll also benefit from:

• A flexible and modern working environment (remote/hybrid)
• A generous compensation package, with a performance-driven bonus structure
• Full access to internal business support teams across Finance, Risk, HR, IT, and L&D
• A strong emphasis on wellbeing, equity, and inclusion
• A client base and caseload that is both meaningful and impactful

The Role

• Lead and manage a national Child Care (Public Law) department
• Drive strategy, commercial performance, and operational excellence
• Develop and support a multi-disciplinary legal team
• Manage budgets, billing, and compliance (Lexcel, LAA) Lead business development and build external profile
• Collaborate with internal teams (HR, Finance, Risk, Marketing, IT)

What You’ll Need

• Qualified Solicitor or CILEX, 7+ years’ PQE in Child Care/Public Law
• Proven leadership experience in a legal setting
• Strong commercial acumen and understanding of Legal Aid/public law practice
• Excellent people management, communication, and compliance handling skills
• Commitment to outcomes-focused, values-driven leadership

Why Apply

• Shape and lead a high-profile department with full strategic ownership
• Competitive salary, performance bonus, and full benefits
• Remote/flexible working supported
• Strong infrastructure and support across all business functions
• Meaningful, impactful caseload and client base

At Harkaye, we represent firms that are committed to real leadership, real impact, and real progress. If you're ready to take the next step in your legal career and lead a nationally recognised Child Care department with full strategic ownership, we want to hear from you.

Submit your CV today or reach out in confidence to arrange a conversation about the role.