PA/Legal Secretary - Commercial Litigation

Our client is a Top 100 Manchester Law firm, and they have a fantastic opportunity for a Personal Assistant to join their Commercial Litigation Team in Manchester. They are looking for a candidate with a minimum of 5 years’ experience of working in a commercial law firm or other professional services firm is essential. In this role, you will provide efficient, proactive, and comprehensive administrative support to a busy team of nine fee earners, ranging from board members to junior lawyers. This role is pivotal to the smooth operation of the department and offers flexible working options after a successful settling-in period.

Key Responsibilities:

• Administrative Support: Providing proactive and efficient support to two Partners and five Solicitors.
• Diary Management: Scheduling meetings, room bookings, and managing travel arrangements.
• Client Liaison: Communicating directly with clients, contacts, and Counsels’ clerks.
• Financial Management: Handling monthly invoicing, financial management, and expense claims.
• Interdepartmental Coordination: Working with various departments, including accounts and central management.
• Business Development Support: Assisting in the implementation of business development strategies, preparing documents, and providing event support.
• File Management: Conducting KYC and conflict checks, preparing engagement letters, managing matter reports, and archiving.
• General Administration: Creating and formatting documents, handling telephone queries, filing, photocopying, and occasional audio/copy typing.
• Team Collaboration: Supporting colleagues, covering phones and diaries, and providing holiday and sickness cover.

What We Are Looking For:

• A minimum of 5 years' experience in a similar PA position within a commercial law firm (preferred) or other professional services.
• An outgoing and friendly manner with an ability to adapt and work at a fast pace.
• A strong work ethic and a 'can-do’ attitude.
• Ability to work well under pressure and meet unexpected deadlines.
• Excellent attention to detail and numeracy skills.
• IT literate, with knowledge of Word and Excel; experience with Proclaim and iManage is desirable but not essential.
• Exceptional time management, organizational skills, and the ability to prioritize effectively.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Benefits:

• A minimum of 25 days' annual leave (increasing with length of service) plus office closure between Christmas and New Year.
• Early finish one Friday a month.
• Two days a year dedicated to charitable work.
• Involvement in sports teams, hobby clubs, and social events.
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme and trained Mental Health First Aiders.
• An annual promotions process open to all staff.