In this month’s Careers Clinic, we’re handing over to Kelly Reid, Associate Director at Realm and specialist in helping private client and Court of Protection lawyers in the North West take the next step in their careers.
Kelly is answering a question from a senior solicitor who’s looking to step up into a Head of Department role and wants to know how to lay the groundwork now for future success.
“I’m a senior solicitor and in the few years, I’d like to move into a Head of Department role. I’ve got strong technical skills, but I know leadership is about more than just knowing the law.
What should I be doing now to prepare and show I’m ready?”
You’re absolutely right – while technical ability is essential, stepping into a Head of Department role also requires confidence, commercial awareness, and a real ability to support and lead others.
The good news is, because you’re thinking ahead, you’ve already made an important first step. Here’s how you can build on that and put yourself in the best position to make the move when the right opportunity arises.
Understand What “Head of Department” Means Where You Are
Every firm defines leadership a little differently, so it’s worth digging into what the role involves at your current firm:
- Are HoDs expected to manage people, budgets, or both?
- What does their involvement in business development look like?
- Who decides who steps up – and what kind of track record do they look for?
Once you know what the expectations are, you can start showing that you’re ready
Take the Initiative and Start Leading
You don’t need a title to show leadership. Look for ways to take ownership and make an impact:
- Mentor or supervise junior team members
- Take the lead on client relationships
- Run training or internal knowledge sessions
- Volunteer for projects that contribute to team or firm-wide goals
The more you show you can think strategically and support those around you, the easier it will be for others to see you in a leadership role.
Grow Your Commercial Awareness
Heads of Department are often responsible for more than just people, they help drive the business forward. Start getting comfortable with:
- Team performance metrics
- Pricing and profitability
- Recruitment and resource planning
- Strategic business development
If you’re not already involved in these conversations, ask to be. Being commercially aware will help you speak the language of leadership and make a stronger case when the time comes.
Raise Your Internal Profile
One of the biggest mistakes I see people make is doing great work, but not talking about it. If you’re serious about stepping up, people need to know:
- What you’re doing
- What impact it’s having
- What your ambitions are
Start having those conversations with the people who matter—your manager, partners, and even HR. And don’t be afraid to ask what you need to demonstrate to be considered when a leadership role becomes available.
Explore Opportunities Outside Your Firm
Sometimes, the role you want simply isn’t going to open up where you are—or you don’t feel confident that you’ll be supported in reaching it.
If that’s the case, I’d encourage you to explore what other firms can offer. Plenty of firms are actively planning succession and are open to bringing in senior lawyers with the potential to grow into Head of Department.
At Realm, I work closely with firms looking for future leaders, and I’d be happy to help you find one that shares your values and ambitions.
The transition to Head of Department is one of the most exciting steps in a legal career, but it can also feel daunting. By being proactive now, you’ll not only grow your skills and confidence, but also put yourself in the strongest possible position to make a move when the time is right.
If you’re thinking about taking that step—or just want to explore what the path might look like—I’d love to chat.
You can reach me at kelly.reid@realmrecruit.com or give me a call on 03300 245 606.
Or take our Career Clarity Quiz to help guide your next step.
