Job Description

Job Overview:

We are one of the largest criminal defence law practices in the South West of England. We have offices in Bristol, Cheltenham and Keynsham, helping people throughout the South West.

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Practice Manager to join our supportive team in this challenging, busy and rewarding role. The Practice Manager has a key role in ensuring the smooth operation of the practice.

This is a full time role, based in our Bristol city centre office.

Key Responsibilities:

Overall responsibility for management of the office, including;

Personnel management Facilities management Health & Safety Support the COLP to maintain compliance Support the COFA in finance supervision
To proactively manage the office, in agreement with the Directors, in an efficient and effective way by developing the quality of service to clients, reviewing performance and contributing to the future development of the Company.

To fully represent and support the Directors, their interests and decisions whilst maintaining a happy and committed team.

Specific Duties:

Administration:

Monitoring and ensuring regulatory compliance Ensure the efficient implementation and maintenance of administrative practices within the company Develop a good understanding of the Lexcel standard Liaise with the COFA, finance assistant and accounting in relation to annual audits and accounts Conduct LAA (legal aid) audits, as required, under the supervision of the COLP Manage suppliers to ensure good value and service Contracts management Arrange, chair and document Board Meetings Complaints management
Staff Matters:

Personnel management including recruitment, induction and retention of staff Line manager for the admin team and finance assistant Maintain channels of communication between Directors and other staff Arrange annual appraisals Manage holidays and absence
Information Technology & GDPR:

Manage change projects of IT and digital facilities Liaison between staff and IT consultants for IT issues Ensure company IT protocols are implemented
Financial:

Oversight of income streams Payroll Liaise between finance assistant and board in relation to financial matters Liaise with Company accountants to facilitate audits and year end accounts Monitor cash flow Authorise payments via online banking
Facilities Management:

Manage the buildings, infrastructure, car park, contents and services; including utilities to ensure that both offices are a safe and efficient working environment Procurement of new equipment
Health & Safety:

Ensure that the Company complies with all aspects of the Health and Safety Act including Fire Precautions and security of personnel (including clients) and property
Equality and Diversity:

Promote and lead equality and diversity in the company

Qualifications & Experience:

Educated to GCSE level or equivalent (essential) Qualification in business, accounting or administration (desirable) Minimum 2 years' personnel management Previous experience managing an office, preferably a solicitors' office Good knowledge of the SRA Handbook and Solicitors Accounts Rules (desirable) Experience with working to compliance requirements (desirable) Experience working with a case management software (desirable)

Skills (all essential):

Excellent written and verbal communication skills IT literate in the use of MS Office, Outlook and Excel Effective time management skills and the ability to meet tight deadlines Strong mathematical skills Strong organisational skills and the ability to analyse and present relevant information in a logical manner

Personal Qualities (all essential):

Confident, assertive and resilient Able to work on own and as part of a team Commercially aware, astute and proactive in developing ideas and solutions Efficient and productive A flexible and adaptable approach to work and a willingness to support colleagues
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: Up to 55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Additional leave On-site parking
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person