At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop a dynamic team in a fast-paced legal environment.
- Company: Join a leading legal firm with a commitment to innovation and teamwork.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, flexible pension schemes, and paid volunteering days.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a strong focus on mental health support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving high-quality delivery and supporting your team.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in legal or professional services is essential.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced and motivated Costs Team Leader to join our national Costs Team. This is an exciting opportunity to lead, support and develop a team of Trainees, Law Costs Draftsmen and Costs Lawyers, driving high‑quality delivery and strong performance in a fast‑paced and evolving environment.
In this role, you will be the key point of contact for senior stakeholders across your aligned locations, ensuring the service we provide meets agreed standards and supports the wider firm. You’ll oversee the full spectrum of costs work across your aligned area, including supervising the preparation of Bills of Costs and court pleadings, providing technical guidance, and driving best practice across your team. You will also play a vital role in motivating and engaging colleagues, championing continuous improvement, and supporting operational delivery across the wider Costs function. You may be required to deputise for the Head of Costs Delivery in meetings and represent the team as needed, both internally and externally.
About You
- Proven experience in a people leadership or team leader role, ideally within a legal or professional services environment.
- Strong operational leadership skills with the ability to manage, engage and motivate a hybrid working team.
- Experience as a Law Costs Draftsperson or in an associated role.
- Ability to manage competing priorities, expectations and stakeholder demands with resilience.
- Highly organised with excellent attention to detail.
- Confident in attending and contributing to key stakeholder meetings.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to provide clear direction, feedback and technical guidance.
- Ability to analyse information, problem‑solve and identify optimal solutions.
- Working knowledge of the Civil Procedure Rules, legal aid regulations and costs processes.
- Knowledge of time‑recording procedures and costs systems.
- A costs, legal or financial qualification (e.g., ACL, ILEX, or similar).
- Experience reviewing and improving existing processes and standards.
Our Benefits – What We Can Offer You
- 25 days holidays as standard plus bank holidays – you can buy up to 35 hours of extra holiday too.
- Generous and flexible pension schemes.
- Volunteering days – two days of volunteering every year for a cause of your choice (fully paid).
- Westfield Health membership, offering refunds on medical services alongside our Aviva Digital GP services.
- We also offer a wide range of well‑being initiatives to encourage positive mental health both in and out of the workplace and to make sure you’re fully supported.
- This includes our Flexible by Choice programme which gives our colleagues more choice over a hybrid way of working subject to role, team and client requirements.
Equal Opportunity
Irwin Mitchell LLP is an equal opportunity employer.
Costs Team Leader in Manchester employer: Irwin Mitchell LLP
Irwin Mitchell LLP is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment for the Costs Team Leader role. With a strong focus on employee well-being, generous holiday allowances, and opportunities for professional growth, we empower our team to excel in their careers while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Our commitment to continuous improvement and flexible working arrangements ensures that you can thrive both personally and professionally in this fast-paced legal landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Costs Team Leader in Manchester
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Irwin Mitchell LLP, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Costs Team Leader in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Irwin Mitchell LLP, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Irwin Mitchell LLP and the specific role of Costs Team Leader. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Irwin Mitchell LLP’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Irwin Mitchell LLP
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Irwin Mitchell LLP.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Irwin Mitchell LLP.
