Practice Manager (Law Firm)
Job Title: Practice Manager
Location: Camden
Reports To: Managing Partner/Partners
Salary: £70k
Employment Type: Full-Time
** LAW FIRM EXPERIENCE REQUIRED **
ABOUT THE ROLE
We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Practice Manager to oversee the day-to-day operations of our busy and growing law firm. This is a senior leadership position responsible for ensuring the firm operates efficiently, remains compliant with regulatory requirements, and delivers an exceptional service to both clients and staff. Working closely with the Partners, you will drive operational excellence, manage key business functions, and support the firm's continued growth through effective leadership, financial oversight, compliance management and people
development.
KEY RESPONSIBILITES
Practice Operations
- Oversee the daily operational management of the firm across all departments.
- Develop and implement policies, procedures and best practice to improve efficiency.
- Monitor workflows and resource allocation to maximise productivity.
- Lead operational improvement projects and identify opportunities for process automation.
- Ensure the firm maintains high standards of client service.
Financial Management
- Work alongside the finance team to monitor financial performance and profitability.
- Assist with budgeting, forecasting and financial planning.
- Monitor WIP, billing, debtor management and cash flow performance.
- Produce management information and KPI reports for the Partners.
- Support strategic business planning and commercial decision-making.
Compliance & Risk
- Ensure compliance with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) Standards and Regulations.
- Support the firm's COLP and COFA with regulatory obligations.
- Oversee AML procedures, GDPR compliance, conflicts management and file audits.
- Maintain risk registers and assist with internal and external compliance audits.
- Monitor regulatory changes and implement necessary policy updates.
HR & People Management
- Manage recruitment, onboarding and induction processes.
- Support employee relations, performance management and staff development.
- Coordinate training and ensure mandatory compliance training is completed.
- Promote a positive, collaborative and high-performing culture.
Technology & Systems
- Manage the firm's practice management systems and operational software.
- Liaise with external IT providers to ensure business continuity and cyber security.
- Identify opportunities to improve systems, reportingand digital processes.
- Support technology implementation projects across the business.
Facilities & Office Management
- Oversee office facilities, suppliers and service providers.
- Manage contracts relating to office services and equipment.
- Ensure health and safety obligations are met.
- Maintain an efficient and professional working environment.
Strategic Support
- Work closely with the Partners on business planning and strategic initiatives.
- Prepare management reports and board papers.
- Support business development initiatives and operational growth.
- Lead firm-wide projects and change management programmes.
SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
Essential
- Previous experience as a Practice Manager, Operations Manager or Business Manager within a law firm.
- Strong understanding of SRA Standards and Regulations.
- Experience managing operational, compliance and administrative functions.
- Excellent leadership and people management skills.
- Strong commercial awareness with experience interpreting financial information.
- Excellent organisational and project management skills.
- Outstanding communication and stakeholder management abilities.
- Advanced Microsoft Office skills and experience with legal practice management systems.
Desirable
- Experience supporting COLP and COFA functions.
- Knowledge of legal accounts and Solicitors Accounts Rules.
- Experience implementing operational improvements and technology projects.
- Relevant management qualification (ILM, CMI or similar).
Personal Attributes
- Highly organised with exceptional attention to detail.
- Commercially focused with strong business acumen.
- Proactive and solutions driven.
- Confident working with senior stakeholders.
- Able to prioritise effectively within a fast paced environment.
- Professional, approachable and collaborative.
- Resilient and adaptable with excellent problem-solving skills.