At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic two-year programme with rotations across various teams in legal operations.
- Company: Norton Rose Fulbright, a global law firm with a commitment to diversity and innovation.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £38,000 plus award-winning benefits and flexible work options.
- Other info: In-person assessment day in February 2027; applications close on 1 January 2027.
- Why this job: Shape the future of legal services while gaining hands-on experience and support.
- Qualifications: Open to innovative graduates eager to learn and grow in a fast-paced environment.
The predicted salary is between 38000 - 38000 £ per year.
We're Norton Rose Fulbright - a global law firm with over 50 offices and 7,000 employees worldwide. We provide the world's preeminent corporations and financial institutions with a full business law service.
As well as the relevant skills and experience, we're looking for people who are innovative, commercial and value the work that they do. We celebrate multiple approaches and points of view and believe diversity drives innovation, so we're building a culture where difference is valued.
What is the Business and Legal Operations Graduate Scheme?
Our Business and Legal Operations Graduate Scheme is a two-year programme encompassing every aspect of the rapid changes currently underway in the delivery of high-end legal services. This doesn't just involve the emergence of new technology. It involves the increasingly crucial role played by other technical disciplines in providing more complex and sophisticated client solutions and optimising our performance as a business.
Legal services are changing. Clients want more than sound legal advice. They also want efficient delivery, useful data, practical technology and solutions that respond to their wider business needs. The Business and Legal Operations Graduate Scheme develops people who can help turn those expectations into action.
What can you expect?
Graduates will have the opportunity to complete four six-month rotations across various teams and programme areas. Throughout the programme, graduates will gain experience across a broad range of work supporting both clients and the firm. This may include:
- Helping teams improve how legal matters are planned and delivered through project management, process improvement, technology adoption, reporting and legal service design;
- Working with lawyers, consultants and technology specialists to understand client needs and help develop practical services, products and solutions;
- Supporting the business operations of legal teams through a client secondment opportunity, gaining first-hand insight into client priorities and ways of working;
- Supporting projects that help shape the future of Norton Rose Fulbright, from AI adoption and business transformation programmes to process improvement and change initiatives.
No two rotations will be the same. Graduates could be:
- Uncovering a business or client challenge and identifying opportunities for improvement;
- Designing and testing a new legal product or tool;
- Delivering training sessions on new technology;
- Running workshops with clients' in-house legal teams;
- Turning raw data into insights that shape decision-making;
- Coordinating projects from scoping through to completion;
- Creating proposals, presentations and training materials;
- Working alongside lawyers, technologists and consultants.
All rotations will be based in our London office, except for the client secondment opportunity, which is also London based.
What you need to know
Those gaining places on the scheme will be given extensive support and expected to perform at a high level. Permanent roles at the end of the two years are earned through the skills, commitment and growth demonstrated during the programme. Graduates will receive regular feedback, guidance and support throughout. Our aim is to help participants succeed and build a long-term career with us. The scheme does not lead to a legal qualification.
Start date: August / September 2027.
Starting salary: £38,000 plus award-winning benefits.
Application deadline: 1 January 2027. Applicants should be available to attend an in-person assessment day in February 2027.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
To attract the best people, we strive to create a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone can bring their whole selves to work, have a sense of belonging, and realize their full career potential. Our new enabled work model allows our people to have more flexibility in the way they choose to work from both the office and a remote location, while continuing to deliver the highest standards of service. We offer a range of family friendly and inclusive employment policies and provide access to programmes and services aimed at nurturing our people's health and overall wellbeing.
We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from individuals who can complement our existing teams. We strive to create an inclusive and accessible recruitment process for all candidates. If you require any tailored adjustments or accommodations, please let us know.
For a deeper insight into life at NRF, listen to our Early Careers podcast, Jump Start and make sure you're following us on Instagram (@nortonrosefulbright.emea).
Business & Legal Operations Graduate Scheme 2027 in London employer: Norton Rose Fulbright
Norton Rose Fulbright is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises collaboration and professional growth. As part of the Global New Business Risk Team in Newcastle upon Tyne, employees benefit from a supportive environment that encourages continuous learning and development, alongside competitive remuneration and flexible working arrangements. The firm's commitment to regulatory excellence and client service ensures that every team member plays a vital role in shaping the future of legal risk management.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business & Legal Operations Graduate Scheme 2027 in London
✨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 Norton Rose Fulbright, 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 Business & Legal Operations Graduate Scheme 2027 in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Norton Rose Fulbright, 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 Norton Rose Fulbright and the specific role of Business & Legal Operations Graduate Scheme 2027. 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 Norton Rose Fulbright’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Norton Rose Fulbright
✨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 Norton Rose Fulbright.
✨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 Norton Rose Fulbright.
