Heilbron became the first woman Presiding Judge of the Northern Circuit, recognized for leading any circuit in England and Wales.
On January 1, 1978, Rose Heilbron assumed the role of the first woman Presiding Judge of the Northern Circuit. The significance of this appointment was underscored by her responsibilities which included overseeing the administration of justice on the circuit, guiding judicial activities, and representing the circuit's interests at national levels. In this capacity, she was a role model to many women contemporaneously entering legal professions, illustrating that merit could overcome traditional prejudices. Heilbron’s presiding position represented a triumph in promoting gender equality and reshaping the course for women in legal leadership.