Practice Manager

Job Title

Practice Manager

Reports To

Managing Partner / Board of Directors

Job Purpose

The Practice Manager is responsible for the overall management and performance of the law firm's operational, financial, and regulatory functions. This role ensures the firm operates efficiently, remains compliant with all legal and regulatory requirements, and achieves its financial and strategic objectives. The Practice Manager works closely with partners and department heads to support business growth, operational excellence, risk management, and client service delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Compliance & Risk Management

• Oversee the firm's compliance with all regulatory requirements, including Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) regulations, Anti-Money Laundering (AML) obligations, GDPR, and other relevant legislation.
• Act as the primary point of contact for compliance-related matters and support the firm's COLP and COFA functions where applicable.
• Develop, implement, and monitor policies, procedures, and internal controls to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Manage risk assessments, audits, file reviews, and compliance training programmes.
• Maintain regulatory records and ensure timely reporting to relevant authorities.
• Monitor changes in legislation and regulatory requirements and implement necessary updates across the firm.

Operations Management

• Lead and manage the day-to-day operational activities of the firm.
• Develop and improve operational processes to enhance efficiency, productivity, and client service.
• Oversee facilities management, supplier contracts, IT systems, and business support functions.
• Manage resource planning, staffing requirements, and operational budgets.
• Support strategic planning and the implementation of business improvement initiatives.
• Ensure effective business continuity and disaster recovery planning.

Financial Management

• Oversee the firm's financial performance, budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management.
• Monitor profitability, financial KPIs, and departmental performance.
• Prepare and present financial reports to partners and senior leadership.
• Manage billing, credit control, financial compliance, and client account procedures.
• Work closely with external accountants, auditors, and financial advisers.
• Identify opportunities to improve financial performance and cost efficiency.

People Management

• Lead and develop administrative and support staff.
• Support recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and staff development initiatives.
• Promote a positive, collaborative, and high-performing workplace culture.
• Ensure compliance with employment legislation and HR best practices.

Strategic Leadership

• Contribute to the firm's strategic planning and growth objectives.
• Support business development initiatives and operational scalability.
• Provide management information and recommendations to support informed decision-making.
• Drive continuous improvement projects across the firm.

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Previous experience in a Practice Manager, Operations Manager, Business Manager, or similar leadership role within a law firm or professional services environment.
• Strong knowledge of SRA regulations, AML requirements, GDPR, and legal sector compliance obligations.
• Demonstrable experience in financial management, budgeting, and reporting.
• Excellent organisational, leadership, and project management skills.
• Strong commercial awareness and business acumen.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proficiency in legal practice management systems and Microsoft Office applications.

Desirable

• Professional qualification in management, finance, compliance, or business administration.
• Experience supporting COLP and/or COFA functions.
• Knowledge of legal accounting rules and Solicitors Accounts Rules.

Key Competencies

• Leadership and people management
• Strategic thinking
• Financial acumen
• Regulatory awareness
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Communication and influencing skills
• Change management
• Attention to detail

Performance Measures

• Regulatory compliance and audit outcomes
• Financial performance against budget
• Operational efficiency and service delivery standards
• Staff engagement and retention
• Successful implementation of strategic initiatives
• Client satisfaction and service quality

Salary

Competitive, dependent upon experience.

Benefits

• Pension scheme
• Annual leave entitlement
• Professional development support
• Flexible working arrangements (where applicable)
• Additional firm-specific benefits