Job Description
Position: Risk & Compliance OfficerLocation: West Midlands (with occasional travel to other offices)Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
About the Firm
Simpson Judge have partnered with a well-established, multi-disciplinary law firm with a strong regional presence and a reputation for delivering high-quality legal services to both private and commercial clients. The firm prides itself on its collaborative culture, long-standing client relationships, and commitment to professional excellence.
The Role
An opportunity has arisen for an experienced and proactive Risk & Compliance Officer to join the firm's compliance function. This is a key position responsible for supporting the firm in meeting its regulatory obligations and maintaining robust risk management processes.
Working closely with senior management and department heads, you will play an integral role in promoting a strong culture of compliance and ensuring adherence to all relevant legal and regulatory requirements.
Key Responsibilities:
* Assist in the development, implementation and monitoring of risk and compliance policies and procedures
* Ensure compliance with SRA Standards and Regulations, AML legislation, GDPR, and other applicable requirements
* Act as a central point of contact for compliance-related queries across the firm
* Support the COLP and COFA functions, including regulatory reporting where required
* Conduct file reviews and internal audits to ensure compliance with firm policies and regulatory standards
* Maintain and update the firm's risk register
* Monitor AML, financial crime, and data protection risks, and provide appropriate guidance
* Assist with complaints handling in line with regulatory obligations and internal procedures
* Deliver training and compliance updates to staff across departments
* Support the maintenance of quality standards such as Lexcel and/or CQS accreditation
* Assist with incident management, including breach reporting and implementation of corrective actions
Candidate Requirements
* Previous experience in a risk and compliance role within a law firm
* Strong working knowledge of SRA regulatory requirements, AML regulations, and legal compliance frameworks
* Good understanding of legal practice areas such as conveyancing, litigation, or private client (desirable)
* Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills
* Strong communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with fee earners and senior stakeholders
* Competent IT skills, including familiarity with case management systems
* A proactive and solutions-focused approach, with the ability to work independently
Key Competencies
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
* Ability to assess and manage risk effectively
* Confident communicator with the ability to influence and advise
* High level of professionalism, integrity, and discretion
* Commercial awareness and understanding of law firm operations
Benefits
* Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
* Generous annual leave entitlement plus bank holidays
* Additional leave over the Christmas period
* Private healthcare (where applicable)
* Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
* Supportive and collaborative working environment
If this is of interest, please get in touch with Rory Brand at Simpson Judge today for a highly confidential chat.