At a Glance
- Tasks: Support partners and fee earners while mentoring junior team members in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Top global law firm with a strong focus on career development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Great opportunity for leadership development within a friendly and adaptable team.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team and advance your career in a dynamic legal setting.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Secretary and proficiency in document management systems required.
Location: London
Salary: £50,000
Hours: Full time, hybrid
About the Role
We are recruiting a Senior Secretary to join the IPT hub at a top global law firm, based in their London office. This role sits within a collaborative "hub" model, where secretarial support is delivered by a shared team rather than on a traditional one-to-one basis, giving team members the opportunity to develop a broader range of skills, build a defined career path, and take part in networking and knowledge-sharing across the practice.
As Senior Secretary, you will take ownership for the efficient day-to-day running of the team, acting as a role model to less experienced colleagues and stepping in as workflow supervisor where required.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide high level support to partners and fee earners as a trusted advisor
- Act as a role model and mentor to less experienced members of the team, sharing knowledge and best practice
- Complete practice group specific tasks to develop specialist expertise, such as acting as a super-user on specific tools or supporting knowledge management
- Build rapport and influence stakeholders, quickly establishing trust
- Take a proactive approach to tasks, anticipating potential problems before they arise
- Collaborate closely with the Billing Team to deliver seamless support to partners and fee earners
- Ensure accurate and timely use of the client relationship management system for matter opening, maintenance, closure and archiving, and for expenses and disbursements
- Occasionally record time for fee earners when required, including non-billable productive time
- Work confidently with document management processes (iManage)
- Coordinate internal and external client meetings, including room and conference facility bookings, liaison with attendees, and arranging catering and technical equipment
- Assist fee earners with meeting organisation, including preparing agendas and collating papers
- Use document production for the creation of all first draft documents
- Organise and assist with client functions, entertainment and seminars as required
- Arrange complex travel bookings, including visas, flights, taxis, accommodation and rental cars
- Assist the billing team with returning client balances and other ad hoc cash management tasks
- Support ad hoc projects as required, such as managing bundles or supporting team events
- Undertake any other secretarial or administrative duties as required
What We\'re Looking For
- Previous experience working as a Secretary
- Previous experience using document management systems
- Good working knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite
- Excellent diary management skills
- Strong organisation and prioritisation skills
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- Sound judgement, with the ability to solve problems and make decisions
- Experience delegating to and training less experienced team members
- A flexible approach to working practices to meet business needs
- A friendly, personable and approachable manner
- An adaptable, conscientious and diligent working style
- The ability to remain calm under pressure
- Eagerness to learn and develop new skills
- A collaborative, can-do attitude, working well across teams and functions
Why Apply
This is a genuine opportunity to join a firm with a strong track record of developing secretaries into leadership roles within its secretarial function. If you are an experienced Secretary looking to step up and take on greater ownership within a supportive, hub-based team, this Senior Secretary role offers a clear path for progression.
To apply for this Senior Secretary, IPT role, please submit your CV today.
Senior Legal Secretary, IPT employer: Law Choice
Law Choice is an excellent employer that fosters a collaborative and supportive work culture, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking to grow in their legal careers. With a focus on personal development and a friendly team environment, employees benefit from opportunities to enhance their skills while working in the vibrant setting of Greater London. The company values diversity and offers a dynamic workplace where bilingual talents can thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal Secretary, IPT
✨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 Law Choice, 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 Senior Legal Secretary, IPT
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Law Choice, 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 Law Choice and the specific role of Senior Legal Secretary, IPT. 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 Law Choice’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Law Choice
✨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 Law Choice.
✨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 Law Choice.
