Position: Practice Manager / Risk & Compliance Officer Location: York (with hybrid working) Salary: £40,000 - £60,000 (depending on experience We are acting on behalf of a long-established and highly regarded regional law firm with a strong foothold in the Yorkshire legal market. The firm has a deeply embedded culture of professionalism, integrity and community trust, and continues to enjoy measured growth and a reputation for high-calibre legal services. As part of their continued evolution, an opportunity has arisen for an experienced and forward-thinking individual to take on a dual-capacity role that blends operational leadership with regulatory oversight. The role of Practice Manager / Risk & Compliance Officer is newly created and offers significant influence at the heart of the business. This is a pivotal position, designed for someone who thrives in a multi-faceted role and is passionate about embedding a culture of risk awareness, regulatory compliance and operational excellence across the organisation. Key Responsibilities Compliance & Risk Management -Serve as the primary point of contact for all regulatory, risk, and compliance matters firmwide. -Oversee AML (Anti-Money Laundering), CDD (Customer Due Diligence), GDPR, and sanctions processes, ensuring full alignment with SRA and broader legal sector standards. -Lead and deliver internal risk assessments, compliance audits, and file reviews across multiple office locations. -Draft, review and maintain firm-wide policies and procedures to reflect changes in legislation, SRA guidance, and market best practice. -Act as liaison during SRA audits and inspections; maintain up-to-date records to demonstrate regulatory compliance. -Champion a culture of compliance across the firm, promoting continuous improvement and best practice through training and internal communications. Operational & Strategic Management -Manage and develop the firm's onboarding and induction process for new staff and lateral hires. -Oversee a small onboarding and compliance administration team, providing clear direction, support and leadership. -Evaluate and refine compliance systems and technologies; lead the implementation of new solutions where necessary to enhance monitoring and reporting functions. -Act as Client Services Manager - handling and resolving client complaints with professionalism and sensitivity. -Deliver firmwide training sessions and workshops, ensuring all staff are well-versed in regulatory requirements, data protection obligations, and risk mitigation processes. -Contribute to the wider operational strategy of the firm as a trusted advisor to the Partners, offering risk-based input on key business decisions. Candidate Profile The successful candidate will be both operationally astute and commercially aware. This is an excellent opportunity for someone seeking to step into a key strategic role within a progressive legal environment. Essential Experience & Attributes -Minimum of 3 years' experience in a compliance, operational or risk-related role within a law firm or another regulated sector (e.g., financial services, professional services). -Strong working knowledge of SRA regulations, AML legislation, GDPR, and associated risk frameworks. -Proven ability to influence and educate stakeholders at all levels. -Excellent communication skills, with a balanced approach to leadership and collaboration. -Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities. -Technologically literate - able to assess and implement compliance tools, systems and workflows. Desirable -A legal qualification or law degree (preferred but not essential). -Prior experience of managing complaints and/or acting as a Client Services lead. -Familiarity with multi-office structures and the nuances of risk management across different teams and service lines. Benefits & Culture -A genuinely supportive and inclusive working environment with a commitment to long-term career development. -Structured, funded and tailored training opportunities. -Performance-related bonus scheme. -Enhanced holiday allowance, including paid closure over the Christmas/New Year period. -Subsidised city centre parking. -Long service recognition, including additional leave entitlements. -Access to subsidised legal services (after 12 months). -Active wellbeing programme, including mental health support, eye care contributions, team events and volunteering initiatives. Next Steps If you are an experienced legal operations or compliance professional seeking a more influential and strategic platform - this is a rare opportunity to align yourself with a stable, well-respected and forward-looking firm. All conversations will be handled in the strictest confidence. To arrange an exploratory discussion or to submit your interest, please contact us directly on 07378 123456