Office Manager in Southampton

This is a critical role which ensures operational efficiency, compliance, and a seamless client experience across multiple high-revenue practice areas and offices. This is more than an operational role – it’s an opportunity to make a real impact in a dynamic, forward-thinking law firm.

You’ll be at the heart of our operations, overseeing the day-to-day management of the Southampton office and supporting three smaller serviced office locations (Oxford, Guildford, Manchester). You’ll provide direction, training, and proactive planning for meetings, events, and business activities, ensuring everything runs like clockwork. Your responsibilities will include:

• Operational Leadership: Manage and supervise the Business Services team, prioritising duties and maintaining service excellence.
• Client Experience: Ensure our client-facing areas deliver a professional, premium experience for Partners and clients.
• Facilities & Compliance: Oversee health and safety, fire safety, audits, and statutory compliance, acting as the local escalation point for Facilities and Business Services together with supporting the firm’s commitment to identifying & prioritising the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues that affect, and are affected by, our operations.
• Event Coordination: Work closely with the team to deliver professional, cost-efficient corporate onsite events.
• Resource Management: Maintain office supplies and manage office moves in collaboration with the Facilities Manager.
• Team Development: Recruit, train, and support staff to build a high-performing team.
• Collaboration: Partner with IT, Legal PAs, Executive Assistants, and senior stakeholders to deliver consistent, high-quality support.
• Reporting: Capture KPI data and drive operational improvements.

We’re seeking someone who thrives in a fast-paced, client-focused environment and brings:

• Proven experience in office or business services management within a professional environment.
• Excellent organisational, prioritisation, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build positive relationships.
• IOSH qualification desirable (but not essential).
• Proficiency in IT, AV, and office equipment.
• Ability to work on-site in Southampton, full-time (36.25 hours per week, between 08:00 and 18:00).

At Foot Anstey, we’re committed to making a difference for our people, our clients, and society. Here’s what makes us stand out:

• An ambitious growth strategy that opens up opportunities for our people to make their mark.
• A client base that spans household names, thriving startups, and ambitious enterprises.
• A culture built on our values of being refreshingly human, entrepreneurial, inclusive and collaborative.
• A strong focus on being a responsible business with a commitment to sustainability and giving back to our communities.
• Comprehensive professional development and training – whatever your role and level we have training that will support you to achieve your goals.

We believe our people are our greatest asset. That’s why we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional growth and personal wellbeing, including:

• Competitive salary and performance-linked bonus.
• Enhanced parental leave policies.
• Private healthcare, and wellbeing initiatives (e.g., mental health support, gym memberships).
• An open, flexible working environment.

Ready to apply? Hit the “Apply Now” button. Send us your CV and a quick note on why this role is perfect for you. Our team will review your application and be in touch, whatever the outcome.

With a straightforward process typically involving two interviews, our talent acquisition team will guide you through every step, ensuring you feel confident and prepared to show us what you can do. We’re here to support your individual needs. If you require any adaptations or adjustments, we’re more than happy to accommodate these.

Let’s make your next career move the start of something extraordinary.