At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead practice management and business development for a top barristers' chambers.
- Company: Join Drystone Chambers, renowned for excellence in criminal law and integrity.
- Benefits: Enjoy a strategic leadership role with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a prestigious chambers while promoting professionalism and inclusion.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and strategic outlook required; experience in practice management is a plus.
- Other info: Apply by 5pm on Friday 20th June 2025; detailed Candidate Brief available upon request.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Our client, Drystone Chambers, the Chambers of Allison Summers KC, is a London-based set with an excellent reputation in criminal law. Members of Chambers regularly appear for both the defence and prosecution in a wide range of serious and complex cases throughout London and on the Southeastern, Midland and Western Circuits. In addition to the pure criminal work, Chambers also has an established reputation in local authority and trading standards.
The Role
Chambers is seeking an ambitious and strategic individual to lead its practice management and business development functions. This newly created senior leadership role will play a key part in shaping Chambers’ future, enhancing its brand and market position, and ensuring operational excellence in line with its values of professionalism, integrity, and inclusion.
The PD is expected to provide oversight and leadership of practice management and strategic delivery to develop the business of Chambers. The successful candidate will be an effective manager and leader, with strong interpersonal skills and a strategic outlook. They will have oversight of the delivery of practice management in Chambers. They must be aware of the regulatory environment in which a Chambers operates and be able to manage the day to day practice management and business strategy. They will advise the Management Committee in settling a strategic business development/delivery plan and budget (within relevant areas). They will be responsible for overseeing its delivery through effective practice management.
The PD will be part of the Senior Management of Chambers and will be accountable to the Head of Chambers and the Management Committee. The PD will not be responsible for financial management or administration, but will be expected to work effectively in collaboration with both the Finance Manager and Head of Operations to ensure Chambers performs effectively in meeting its regulatory obligations and to realise its business development/delivery plan. This tripartite team will be coordinated by Chambers’ Head of Operations. The PD will be expected to attend regular meetings with the Finance Manager and Head of Operations in addition to holding their own meetings with members of the clerking staff.
How to Apply
Please send your CV, clearly setting out your experience, skills and why you are interested in the role, to exclusively retained consultants GRL Legal. To discuss the role in confidence, please contact Matt at mcurness@grllegal.com, Paul at preece@grllegal.com or Nick at nrees@grllegal.com. A detailed Candidate Brief is available upon request and the deadline for applications is 5pm on Friday 20th June 2025.
Practice Director - Leading Barristers\' Chambers - London employer: GRL Legal
Contact Detail:
GRL Legal Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Practice Director - Leading Barristers\' Chambers - London
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and opportunities facing barristers' chambers today. Understanding the regulatory environment and current trends in criminal law will help you demonstrate your strategic insight during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the legal sector, especially those involved in practice management and business development. Attend relevant events or seminars to build relationships and gain insights that could be beneficial for your role at Drystone Chambers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how it aligns with the values of professionalism, integrity, and inclusion. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully led teams and managed strategic initiatives in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Drystone Chambers thoroughly, including its history, key members, and recent cases. This knowledge will not only help you tailor your approach but also show your genuine interest in contributing to their future success.
We think you need these skills to ace Practice Director - Leading Barristers\' Chambers - London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Practice Director position. Familiarise yourself with Drystone Chambers and their values to tailor your application accordingly.
Craft a Tailored CV: Your CV should highlight relevant experience in practice management and business development. Emphasise your leadership skills and any previous roles that demonstrate your ability to manage teams and develop strategic plans.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, clearly articulate why you are interested in this role and how your background aligns with the needs of Drystone Chambers. Mention specific examples of your achievements in similar positions to showcase your suitability.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or typos. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a senior leadership role.
How to prepare for a job interview at GRL Legal
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure you have a deep understanding of the Practice Director role and its responsibilities. Familiarise yourself with Drystone Chambers' values, especially professionalism, integrity, and inclusion, as these will be key in your discussions.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare to discuss your strategic outlook and how you would approach business development for the Chambers. Think about specific examples from your past experience where you've successfully led practice management or developed a strategic plan.
✨Demonstrate Interpersonal Skills
As an effective manager and leader, your interpersonal skills will be crucial. Be ready to share examples of how you've built relationships and collaborated with teams, particularly in a legal or regulatory environment.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Have insightful questions ready for the interviewers about the Chambers' current challenges and future goals. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.