Operations Manager

HarKaye Core Talent; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development

Collaborative culture

Hybrid working options

Job summary

A national law firm in Manchester is looking for an experienced Operations Manager to enhance operational efficiency and ensure compliance with Legal Aid processes. The successful candidate will manage daily activities across legal teams, support audits, and develop best practices to improve service delivery. A background in legal operations is essential. Hybrid working options and a supportive culture are part of the offer.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in an operations or practice management role within a law firm.
• Strong knowledge of Legal Aid Agency processes and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience supporting change projects and implementing new ways of working.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operational activity across multiple legal teams.
• Manage and optimise Legal Aid processes.
• Support preparation for Legal Aid audits and improvements.
• Collaborate with finance and compliance teams on SRA requirements.

Skills

Operations management

Legal Aid processes

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Continuous improvement mindset

Tools

Case management systems (e.g., Proclaim, SOS)

Job description

Empowering Law Firms with Strategic Talent Solutions | Precision. Strategy |Winner of the Made In Manchester Award Talent/HR…

Operations Manager – Law Firm (with Legal Aid Experience)

About the Role

A national law firm is seeking an experienced and proactive Operations Manager to support the smooth and efficient running of the practice. This pivotal role will work closely with senior leadership to oversee day-to-day operational performance, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and ensure teams are fully supported to deliver high-quality legal services.

A background in Legal Aid processes and compliance is essential, as you will play a key part in maintaining controls, supporting audits, and ensuring the business continues to meet regulatory and contractual obligations.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operational activity across multiple legal teams to support business efficiency and service delivery.
• Manage, monitor, and optimise Legal Aid processes, including file management, billing, claims, and compliance requirements.
• Support preparation for Legal Aid audits, implementing improvements based on feedback.
• Work closely with Heads of Department to identify operational risks, capacity issues, and resourcing needs.
• Assist in managing supplier relationships, facilities, and administrative support functions.
• Develop and implement policies, workflows, and best-practice procedures to improve productivity and reduce operational friction.
• Collaborate with finance and compliance teams to ensure alignment with SRA requirements, Legal Aid Agency contract obligations, and internal governance.
• Produce reports on operational metrics, performance trends, and efficiency opportunities.
• Lead, coach, and support administrative and support staff, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Drive firm-wide projects such as system implementations, process redesign, and change management initiatives.

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven experience in an operations, practice management, or business support role within a law firm.
• Strong working knowledge of Legal Aid Agency processes, billing structures, portal usage, and auditing requirements.
• Understanding of regulatory frameworks (including SRA Standards & Regulations).
• Confident working with performance data, KPIs, and operational reporting tools.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder‑management skills, able to influence at all levels.
• Highly organised with the ability to prioritise competing demands and drive deadlines.
• Experience supporting change projects and implementing new ways of working.
• Strong problem‑solving ability with a continuous‑improvement mindset.
• Experience with case management systems (e.g. Proclaim, SOS, or similar).

What’s on Offer

• The opportunity to join a well‑respected national firm committed to access to justice.
• A supportive, collaborative culture focused on quality and innovation.
• Hybrid working options and ongoing professional development.

How to Apply

Please submit a CV and covering letter outlining your relevant experience and interest in the role. All applications are being handled by HarKaye.