Job Description
The Practice Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operational management of the firm, ensuring the business runs efficiently, compliantly and profitably. The role supports the Managing Partner and Heads of Department in delivering the firm’s strategic objectives, overseeing finance, compliance, people management, systems and operational processes. The Practice Manager ensures that the firm maintains high professional standards, regulatory compliance and excellent client service, while supporting fee earners to maximise productivity and profitability.
Responsibilities
1. Operations
* Oversee the daily operational management of the firm across all departments and offices.
* Ensure efficient workflows, systems and administrative support are in place.
* Monitor operational performance and identify areas for improvement.
* Implement and maintain effective office procedures and policies.
2. Financial Management
* Work with the Managing Partner and accounts team to monitor the financial performance of the firm.
* Produce and review:
o Monthly financial reports
o Department performance reports
o Billing and WIP reports
* Monitor:
o Fee income against targets
o Lock-up (WIP and debtors)
o Disbursements
* Support Heads of Department in managing financial performance and billing discipline.
3. Compliance/Risk
* Support the COLP and COFA in maintaining regulatory compliance with:
o SRA regulations
o Lexcel (if applicable)
o AML requirements
o Data protection
* Maintain compliance registers including:
o Complaints
o Undertakings
o Breaches
o Risk register
* Coordinate regulatory audits and file reviews.
4. HR and Staff
* Support recruitment across the firm including:
o Advertising roles
o Interview coordination
o Onboarding processes
* Oversee staff induction processes.
* Maintain HR records and policies.
* Assist with performance management processes.
5. Systems and Technology
* Oversee the firm’s practice management systems including:
o Case management systems
o Document management
o Telephony and CRM systems
* Work with IT providers to ensure systems are secure, efficient and properly maintained.
6. New Business and Client Experience
* Oversee the new enquiry and client onboarding process.
* Ensure enquiries are handled efficiently and conversion opportunities maximised.
* Monitor:
o Enquiry volumes
o Conversion rates
o Client feedback
7. Facilities and Office
* Manage office premises and facilities across all locations.
* Oversee health and safety compliance.
* Manage relationships with external suppliers including:
8. Strategic Support
* Support the Managing Partner in implementing the firm’s business strategy and growth plans.
Skills and Experience
Essential
* Experience in a Practice Manager or senior operations role within a law firm
* Strong understanding of law firm financial management
* Knowledge of SRA regulations and compliance requirements
* Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
* Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
Desirable
* Ability to prepare monthly management accounts
* Experience managing multi-office legal practices
* Familiarity with legal case management systems (LEAP/Intelliworks/Practice Evolve)
* Experience with Lexcel and CQS
Personal Attributes
* Proactive and solutions-focused
* Strong leadership and team management ability
Additional Expectations
* Be flexible to travel between offices in North Herts and South Beds.