Legal Delivery Manager in Manchester

The UK Delivery Team at DWF in Manchester is seeking a qualified solicitor to step into a pivotal leadership role as a Legal Delivery Manager. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of our managed legal services and make a meaningful impact within a global firm. As Legal Delivery Manager, you will lead a high-performing team and ensure the delivery of exceptional service to both internal and external clients. You will take full responsibility for an evolving portfolio of products, services, and work types, driving operational excellence and strong financial performance through effective people and process management. We offer flexibility through hybrid working, with three days per week based in our Manchester office. You will also benefit from being part of a collaborative, forward-thinking team that values innovation and professional growth. At DWF, we provide opportunities for career development and progression, alongside a supportive culture that champions success. If you are passionate about leadership, innovation, and delivering outstanding results, we would love to hear from you.

Responsibilities

• Service Delivery

• Lead and optimise operations: Manage day-to-day delivery across the UK Delivery Centre team, ensuring high operational and financial performance while driving technology and process improvements for best client value.
• Manage transitions and projects: Oversee the integration of new work streams by redesigning processes to leverage technology and take responsibility for large-scale or complex projects such as document reviews and client engagements, ensuring quality and continuity.
• Drive innovation and efficiency: Identify and implement opportunities for process improvements, automation, and best practice across all client engagements to enhance service delivery.

• Foster a positive team culture: Lead an engaging, motivating environment that supports progression and development, while embedding DWF values and commitments to ESG, CSR, and D&I agendas.
• Manage resources effectively: Oversee work allocation, ensure efficient resource planning, forecast growth and recruitment needs, and maintain accurate time recording across the team.
• Drive performance and development: Identify and address training needs in collaboration with HR and L&D, lead the performance review cycle, and work on succession planning to develop future leaders.
• Handle escalations and support leadership: Take responsibility for escalated HR and delivery issues, report to the Operations Delivery Director as needed, and support the Head of Document Review in managing review teams and projects.

• Proactively build and maintain strong relationships with clients, colleagues, and external partners to identify new business opportunities and support bid activity when required.

• Take overall responsibility for client reporting and relationship management, ensuring quality standards, service level agreements, and best practice are met while adapting services to evolving client needs.

• Champion business excellence by managing risk and working closely with compliance teams to implement changes arising from audits or regulatory developments.

What will help you succeed in this role?

• Qualified solicitor with at least 3 years' PQE experience.
• Demonstrated ability to motivate and lead large legal operations teams effectively.
• High level of financial and commercial awareness.
• Excellent attention to detail, with the ability to analyse files and data accurately.
• Experience in implementing technology solutions and supporting change initiatives.
• Ability to adapt positively to change and work effectively under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Skilled in managing escalations in line with regulatory standards, with sound decision-making skills.
• Experience managing document review projects and teams, and confidence using Relativity or other review platforms.
• Proven track record of meeting budgets, quality standards, and timelines.
• Ability to report on progress metrics and provide clear, insightful analysis.

What we offer?

We are committed to ensuring that each member of our team feels valued and duly rewarded during their time at DWF. We are an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. We aim to create a positive experience for all candidates and offer any adjustments or additional support needed. If you are excited about the opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with all the requirements, please apply anyway. You may be the right candidate for the role or others across the wider team.

About us

DWF is a global legal business providing Complex, Managed and Connected Services. We empower people to be themselves within an inclusive and supportive environment, enabling everyone to achieve their full potential in line with their abilities and career aspirations.