Symonds & Sampson LLP are searching for a Chief Operating Officer (COO) who can offer strong HR and leadership skills. This is a varied role and the ideal candidate has extensive business and HR experience at a senior management level.
Symonds & Sampson started in Dorchester, Dorset, in 1858, becoming an LLP in 2007 and now operates from 16 regional offices in 4 counties, employing more than 150 professional and support staff. Services include estate agency, lettings, management, auctioneering and property advice across the residential, rural and commercial sectors.
Full-time but some flexibility may be possible. Monday-Friday 9:00-17:30.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
* Lead and enhance back-office operations including HR and Compliance, building an inclusive culture that ensures staff can thrive and that organisational goals are met
* Collaborate with the Managing Partner, CFO and Business Systems Coordinator to drive the Firm’s operations strategy forward and disseminating to staff
* Ensure effective recruiting, onboarding, professional development, performance management, and retention
* Ensure compliance with national and professional business regulations, and take appropriate action when necessary
* Management of the firm’s health & safety obligations
* Management of the firm’s estate and sustainability goals
* Lead on GDPR requirements including processing of any SARs
* Build and maintain relationships with Partners, staff and third-party suppliers
* Coordinate partner meetings, providing support as required
PREFERRED SKILLS
* HR experience and ability to take the lead on matters arising
* Excellent leadership skills with management experience in a business environment at a senior level
* Understanding of compliance and regulatory issues
* Personal integrity and empathy
* Ability to work individually and collaboratively
* Strong communication skills at all levels within an organisation
* Willingness to take responsibility and make decisions, whether in familiar or new territory
* Ability to consider the big picture and foresee potential issues
* Strong IT and presentation skills (Office 365 and SharePoint used)
REWARDS
* Competitive salary, depending on relevant experience
* 6 weeks holiday including bank holidays plus company days
* A strong professional environment, with an opportunity for the right person to progress in the partnership
* Company days at Christmas
* Enhanced maternity pay
* Work-based pension scheme
* Firm-wide events
* Sporting and social
* Free parking
* Annual salary reviews
THE OFFICEThe Head Office is in Poundbury, with shops, eateries and parks within walking distance. It is a multi-disciplinary office, home to the accounts, agricultural, professional, commercial, and marketing departments.
It is envisaged that this role will be largely office-based, but travel to visit other offices will be required from time to time so a suitable car is required.
CLOSING DATEMonday 30th June 9am. The closing date may be brought forward should we receive a high volume of applications. To avoid disappointment, we suggest submitting your application promptly.
STARTING DATEAugust 2025 to be agreed
APPLICATIONSPlease send a CV with a covering letter to hr@symondsandsampson.co.uk or by post to Symonds & Sampson LLP, Burraton House, 5 Burraton Square, Poundbury, Dorset, DT1 3GR. All applications will be received in the strictest of confidence. For further information, please call 01305 236237.
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