At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide high-level support and mentor team members while managing workflows.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking firm that values collaboration and career growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Opportunities for skill development and progression within the company.
- Why this job: Be a trusted advisor and make a real impact in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Secretary with strong organisational and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
In many of our offices, ‘Hubs’ have transformed how secretarial services are delivered; with team members sharing the workload. Hubs also provide opportunities for developing a broader range of skills for pursuing a defined career path, networking and knowledge-sharing. These opportunities were not possible with the traditional model. We are proud of our history of secretaries progressing to take leading roles in the strategy setting and day-to-day running of our secretarial function.
Main duties and responsibilities:
- Provide high level support to partners and fee earners as a trusted advisor.
- Act as a role model and mentor to less experienced members of the team by sharing knowledge and best practice.
- Complete practice group specific tasks to develop specialist expertise (e.g. super-user on specific tools, knowledge management support).
- Utilise skill in influencing stakeholders - quickly building rapport and be seen as a trusted advisor.
- Add value by taking a proactive approach to tasks and anticipating potential problems before they arise.
- Collaborate closely with the Billing Team to deliver seamless support to partners and fee earners.
- Ensure accurate and timely use of our client relationship management system to facilitate matter opening, maintenance, closure and archiving, expenses and disbursements.
- Occasionally record time for fee-earners when required (including non-billable productive time).
- Understand DLA Piper document management processes (iManage).
- Coordinate internal and external client meetings effectively ensuring rooms and conference facilities are booked, liaising with attendees and ensuring that any required catering and technical equipment is in place.
- Assist fee earners with the organisation of meetings including preparation of agendas and collating meeting papers in a timely manner.
- Utilise document production for the creation of all first draft documents.
- Organise and assist with client functions, entertainment and seminars, as required.
- Arrange complex travel bookings, including visas, flights, taxis, accommodation and rental cars, etc.
- Assist the billing team returning client balances and other adhoc cash management tasks.
- Assist on ad-hoc projects as and when required, for example managing bundles, supporting team events etc.
- Any other secretarial or administrative duties as required.
About You:
- Previous experience as a Secretary.
- Previous experience of document management systems.
- Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
- Excellent diary management.
- Strong organisation and prioritisation skills.
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
- Applies knowledge and judgement to solve problems and make decisions.
- Experience of delegating to, and training, less experienced team members.
- Flexible approach to working practices in order to meet business needs.
- Friendly, personable and approachable.
- Adaptable and flexible approach.
- Conscientious and diligent.
- Remains calm under pressure.
- Eager to learn and develop skills.
- Adopt a can do attitude.
- Works cooperatively with colleagues across teams and functions.
- Shares knowledge and supports colleagues to achieve collective goals.
Senior Secretary employer: DLA Piper
As a Senior Secretary at our innovative Hubs, you will thrive in a collaborative environment that fosters skill development and career progression. Our commitment to mentorship and knowledge-sharing ensures that you not only contribute to the team's success but also grow into a trusted advisor and leader within the secretarial function. With a focus on work-life balance and a supportive culture, we offer a rewarding experience that empowers you to take ownership of your role while enjoying the unique advantages of working in a dynamic and forward-thinking organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Secretary
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, or even reach out to current employees at companies you're interested in. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your interview skills! Grab a mate and do some mock interviews. Focus on showcasing your experience as a Secretary and how you can add value to the team. Remember, confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Tailor your approach for each application. Research the company and understand their culture. When you apply through our website, make sure to highlight how your skills align with their needs and how you can contribute to their secretarial function.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit for the Senior Secretary position.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Secretary
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Senior Secretary role. Highlight your previous secretarial experience, especially any work with document management systems or team collaboration.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've taken ownership in past positions and how you’ve supported teams effectively.
Showcase Your Soft Skills:We love candidates who can communicate well and build rapport. Make sure to mention your strong organisation skills and your ability to remain calm under pressure in your application.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at DLA Piper
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the Senior Secretary role and its responsibilities. Familiarise yourself with the specific tasks mentioned in the job description, like managing diaries, coordinating meetings, and using document management systems. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since the role involves working closely with a team, be prepared to discuss your experience in collaboration and mentoring. Share examples of how you've supported less experienced colleagues or contributed to a team’s success. Highlighting your ability to build rapport and act as a trusted advisor will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and adaptability. Think of scenarios where you had to manage competing priorities or resolve conflicts within a team. Practising your responses will help you articulate your thought process clearly and demonstrate your ability to remain calm under pressure.
✨Bring Your A-Game with Tech Skills
Be ready to discuss your proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and any document management systems you've used. If you have experience with specific tools mentioned in the job description, like iManage, make sure to highlight that. Showing that you're tech-savvy will give you an edge, especially in a role that relies heavily on efficient administration.
