At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Employment/HR team with various administrative and client-focused tasks.
- Company: Join an award-winning law firm known for its supportive and people-focused culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a bonus scheme, health benefits, and paid time off for volunteering.
- Other info: Flexible working and opportunities for career progression await you.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while learning from experts in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a desire to learn.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Location: Preston or Manchester
Harrison‑Drury is a market‑leading firm of solicitors with offices in Lancashire, Cumbria and Staffordshire. We’re delighted to be named one of the UK’s Best Companies to Work For for the third year running, placing at number 40 in the Top 100 Best Mid‑Sized Companies to Work For list. We also ranked 10th in the Best Companies to Work For in the Law sector — achievements that reflect our commitment to creating a supportive, people‑focused workplace.
We challenge the conventional law‑firm model and focus our energy on delivering outstanding results for clients while attracting, developing and supporting brilliant people.
About the TeamHarrison Drury provides clients with access to a highly experienced team of employment lawyers and specialist HR professionals who support the full spectrum of employment law and HR matters — from day‑to‑day people issues to complex projects and defending employment litigation.
Our combined HR and legal expertise means our advice is aligned, pragmatic and commercially focused, helping clients minimise risk and avoid disputes wherever possible. We work closely with retained clients as an extension of their in‑house teams, supporting them across the entire employment lifecycle — from onboarding and contractual documentation through to performance, employee relations, restructuring and exit.
The team’s services include:
- Employment litigation and tribunals
- HR consultancy
- HR Compass
- Employment Rights Bill guidance
- Redundancy and restructuring support
- Contractual and policy documentation
- Ongoing advisory support across all people‑management matters
We pride ourselves on building long‑term relationships, understanding each client’s operational needs and delivering clear, jargon‑free advice that works in practice.
The RoleThis is a varied and hands‑on role supporting the Employment/HR team. Responsibilities include:
- Managing and maintaining critical dates diaries
- Coordinating with wider team, Solicitors, Exec admin etc
- Providing administrative support to retained and new clients
- Handling second‑sift new enquiries and preparing summaries for allocation
- Routine matter management: opening, ID checks, document production, closing and archiving
- Filing documents, scans and copies
- Producing bundles and meeting packs
- Supporting the billing process and preparing billing guides
- Liaising with Finance on accounting activities
- Drafting routine documents under supervision
- Supporting the HR Consultant and Solicitors on cases
- Attending client meetings and taking minutes
- Contributing to operational improvements, including maintaining the department manual
- Supporting the HR Compass retained client product
- Conducting research for team members
- Working flexibly to meet client and team needs
Excellent written and verbal communication
Strong attention to detail
Good organisation and planning skills
Self‑motivated with a desire to learn and progress
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
Desirable:
- Administration experience, ideally within an HR environment
- Telephone contact with clients
- Experience in a law firm or professional practice
At Harrison Drury, we believe in rewarding our people and supporting their wellbeing. Benefits include:
- Employee bonus scheme and annual pay review
- Medicash health benefits cash plan and Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Holiday entitlement increases with length of service
- Paid time off for voluntary work (2 days per year)
- Free conveyancing for the purchase/sale of your primary residence
- Free individual or mirror Wills
- Employee referral scheme
- Biannual promotion and salary uplift application process
- Regular social events, including our annual Christmas party and staff recognition awards
Be part of an award‑winning, people‑focused firm
Work alongside recognised experts in Employment and HR
Enjoy a supportive culture that invests in your development and wellbeing
Make a real impact within a growing and ambitious team
Paralegal – Employment & HR | Growth & Impact in Preston employer: Harrison Drury & Co
Harrison-Drury is an award-winning law firm that prioritises a supportive and people-focused workplace, making it an excellent employer for those seeking a meaningful career in Employment and HR. With a commitment to employee development, competitive benefits such as an employee bonus scheme, and opportunities for professional growth, you will thrive in a collaborative environment that values your contributions. Join us in Preston or Manchester and be part of a team that not only excels in legal expertise but also fosters a culture of wellbeing and recognition.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Paralegal – Employment & HR | Growth & Impact in Preston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the legal field, especially those working in employment and HR. Attend events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have a lead on a job!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the firm and its culture. Since Harrison-Drury values a supportive workplace, think about how your skills and experiences align with their mission. Be ready to share examples of how you’ve contributed to team success in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence. Focus on articulating your thoughts clearly and showcasing your attention to detail, which is crucial for a paralegal role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Harrison-Drury. Let’s get you that paralegal position!
We think you need these skills to ace Paralegal – Employment & HR | Growth & Impact in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Paralegal role. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description, especially in employment law and HR.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since excellent written and verbal communication is key for this role, use clear and concise language in your application. Don’t forget to proofread for any typos or errors!
Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills:In your application, mention any experience you have with managing diaries, coordinating tasks, or handling multiple responsibilities. This will show us that you can keep things running smoothly in a busy environment.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Harrison Drury!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harrison Drury & Co
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the basics of employment law and HR practices. Familiarise yourself with common terms and recent developments in the field. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Organisation Skills
Since the role involves managing critical dates and coordinating with various teams, be prepared to discuss how you stay organised. Share specific examples from your past experiences where your planning skills made a difference, whether in an HR setting or elsewhere.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Harrison-Drury values collaboration, so be ready to talk about your experience working in teams. Highlight instances where you contributed to team success or supported colleagues, especially in high-pressure situations. This will illustrate that you can thrive in their supportive culture.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions ready. Inquire about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or how they measure success in the role. This shows that you're not just interested in the job, but also in how you can contribute to the firm's goals.
