Legal PA – 12 Month FTC (Maternity Cover)
International law firm | Southampton | Hybrid working
I am working with a highly regarded international law firm to recruit an experienced Legal PA on a 12 month fixed-term contract to cover maternity leave, based in their Southampton office. This is a full-time role with hybrid working, offering three days in the office once established, though the first six weeks will require full-time office attendance to ensure a thorough handover and onboarding.
My client is a well-established international law firm with a strong presence in the UK and globally. They are known for their progressive, people-focused culture and their ability to think differently when delivering legal services. Collaboration, innovation and high-quality client service sit at the heart of everything they do, and Legal PAs are viewed as integral members of the wider legal team.
The role
This is a busy and varied Legal PA role supporting partners and fee earners within a fast-paced practice, working on complex and often cross-border matters. You will provide proactive, high-quality PA support, enabling the lawyers to focus on advising clients effectively. You will work closely with other Legal PAs, Legal Admin Assistants and business services teams, and will liaise regularly with clients and international colleagues.
In addition to core Legal PA responsibilities, the role also includes office coordination duties, supporting the smooth day-to-day running of the Southampton office and acting as a central point of contact for a range of operational and administrative matters.
Key responsibilities will include:
Diary, inbox and travel management
* Proactive management of complex diaries, anticipating clashes and resolving issues
* Coordinating internal and external meetings, including international calls and video conferencing
* Inbox management for fee earners when required, prioritising correspondence and responding with initiative
* Handling calls and queries in a professional and confident manner
* Arranging UK and international travel, itineraries, expenses and logistics
* Organising client entertainment and small-scale events, with occasional on-the-day support
Document production, billing and business development
* Managing the production of legal documents and presentations via the document production team
* Drafting and amending correspondence, proof-reading and ensuring house style compliancePreparing meeting papers, agendas and presentationsSupporting the end-to-end billing process and liaising with finance teamsMaintaining fee earner CVs, deal lists and capability statementsAssisting with BD activity, pitches, CRM updates and client-facing materials
Administrative and team support
o File opening, conflict checks and AML processes
o Document management, archiving and file closing
o Expenses, invoices and payments
o Supporting CRM, knowledge management and internal training sessions
o Assisting with internal events, inclusivity initiatives and office activities
o General administration to support the wider team and office environment
Skills and experience required:
o Proven Legal PA experience within a law firm
o Experience supporting partners and fee earners on complex matters
o Real Estate experience advantageous but not essential
o Exceptional organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities
o Confident communicator with a professional and approachable manner
o Calm under pressure with a proactive, solutions-focused approach
o Strong attention to detail and a high standard of work
o Discreet, professional and comfortable working with confidential information
What’s on offer:
o 12 month fixed-term contract with a leading international law firm
o Southampton-based role with hybrid working
o Supportive, inclusive and forward-thinking culture
o A varied Legal PA position where you are seen as a true business partner
If you are an experienced Legal PA looking for a strong maternity cover opportunity in Southampton within an international firm, I would be keen to speak with you. Please apply or get in touch for a confidential discussion.
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