At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Employment/HR team with varied administrative tasks and client interactions.
- Company: Join an award-winning law firm known for its supportive and people-focused culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy bonuses, health benefits, paid volunteer days, and social events.
- Other info: Flexible working to meet client needs and excellent career growth opportunities.
- 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 - 32000 £ 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 Team
Harrison 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 Role
This 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
Skills & Experience
- 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
Benefits
At Harrison Drury, we believe in rewarding our people and supporting their wellbeing:
- 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
Why Join Us
- 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 & Benefits in Manchester employer: Harrison Drury Solicitors
Harrison-Drury is an award-winning law firm that prioritises a supportive and people-focused workplace, consistently recognised as one of the UK's Best Companies to Work For. With a commitment to employee development and wellbeing, we offer a range of benefits including an employee bonus scheme, health benefits, and opportunities for career progression, all within a collaborative environment in the vibrant cities of Preston and Manchester.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Paralegal – Employment & HR | Growth & Benefits in Manchester
✨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 the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Harrison-Drury and understanding their values. Familiarise yourself with their approach to employment law and HR consultancy. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a paralegal, you’ll need to convey information clearly and effectively. Try mock interviews with friends or family, focusing on articulating your thoughts on employment law and HR matters. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and serious about joining Harrison-Drury. Keep an eye on our careers page for updates and new opportunities!
We think you need these skills to ace Paralegal – Employment & HR | Growth & Benefits in Manchester
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. We want to see how you can contribute to our team!
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since excellent written communication is key for this role, ensure your application is clear, concise, and free of errors. Use professional language but keep it friendly – we love a personable touch!
Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've managed multiple tasks or projects effectively. We value strong organisational skills, so let us know how you keep everything on track!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harrison Drury Solicitors
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the basics of employment law and HR practices. Familiarise yourself with common terms and concepts that might come up during the conversation. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you engage more effectively with the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Since the role involves managing critical dates and coordinating with various team members, be prepared to discuss how you stay organised. Share specific examples from your past experiences where your planning and organisational skills made a difference. This will demonstrate your ability to handle the responsibilities of the position.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few insightful questions about the team dynamics or the firm's approach to client relationships. This not only shows your enthusiasm for the role but also gives you a chance to assess if the company culture aligns with your values. Remember, interviews are a two-way street!
✨Be Yourself
While it's important to be professional, don’t forget to let your personality shine through. Harrison-Drury values a supportive and people-focused workplace, so being authentic can help you connect with the interviewers. Share your motivations and what drives you in your career, especially in the context of HR and employment law.