At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and grow a high-value legal recruitment desk while mentoring a dynamic team.
- Company: Join Henderson Scott, a leading name in legal recruitment with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, car allowance, uncapped commission, and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Seize a career-defining opportunity to shape the future of legal recruitment in Manchester.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as a senior legal recruiter with leadership ambitions.
- Other info: Enjoy structured progression and support from senior leadership as you grow your career.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Henderson Scott's Legal Division is entering a major regional growth phase, and we’re seeking an established Principal or Managing Consultant with clear leadership ambition to help build and ultimately lead a Legal team in Manchester. This role is designed for a senior legal recruiter who wants a defined pathway into SLT responsibility, supported by our Director of Legal, our CEO and backed by a proven, high-performing recruitment group with significant Private Equity investment.
You’ll initially focus on growing a high-value personal desk, while progressively taking ownership of team build, mentoring, market strategy and regional brand presence across Manchester and the North.
Why this is a career-defining move
At Henderson Scott, leadership isn’t promised – it’s built properly, with structure and support. Our Legal Division already operates nationally with an established team of 15+ consultants. Manchester is now a strategic growth hub, with full backing to create a long-term leadership presence locally.
What that means for you
- A clear succession pathway toward senior leadership, become a Director within 3 years
- Locally based Senior leadership including our CEO to provide support and guidance
- Investment to hire, scale and build a sustainable team around you
- Backing from the wider Search Recruitment Group and H2 Equity Partners
What’s in it for you?
- Market-leading earning potential – £35k-£45k starting basic salary (DOE)
- £4.8k car allowance
- Uncapped commission – earn up to 40% of billings
- Significant long-term upside as team and leadership responsibilities grow
- A genuine leadership pathway – Structured progression from Managing Consultant → Divisional Manager → Senior Divisional Manager → Director
- Responsibility introduced gradually, with mentoring and leadership support
- Autonomy & ownership
- Full control of your legal market and desk strategy
- Influence over hiring decisions, market focus and team structure
- Brand & infrastructure – A highly regarded name in Legal recruitment
- National PSLs, cross-office collaboration and shared delivery support
- Flexibility & balance – Hybrid working
- Output-focused culture – trusted to operate at senior level
What you’ll be doing
- Phase 1 – Build & Lead by Example: Owning and scaling a high-value 360 legal desk; recruiting senior lawyers across private practice and/or in-house; developing long-term partnerships with leading firms and legal teams; acting as a senior presence in the Manchester legal market.
- Phase 2 – Team & Market Growth: Mentoring and developing consultants as the team grows; supporting hiring, onboarding and performance standards; helping shape regional legal strategy alongside senior leadership; building Henderson Scott’s reputation as a leading Legal recruiter in the North. Role evolves from individual excellence to team leadership and regional ownership.
Who we’re looking for
- A senior legal recruiter with a strong, consistent billing history.
- Experience operating at Principal or Managing Consultant level.
- Clear ambition to move into people leadership.
- Strong knowledge of the Northern legal market.
- A collaborative, values-led leadership style.
Interested? Apply online or contact our Director of Legal for further insight into this long-term opportunity.
EEO Statement: Search is an equal opportunities recruiter and we welcome applications from all suitably skilled or qualified applicants, regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/beliefs, sexual orientation or age.
Henderson Scott – always raising the bar.
Managing Recruitment Consultant - Legal in Manchester employer: Search
Contact Detail:
Search Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Recruitment Consultant - Legal in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the legal recruitment scene. Attend industry events, join relevant online groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you’re chatting with potential employers or networking, make sure to highlight your successes and what makes you a standout candidate. Share specific examples of how you’ve built teams or led successful projects in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply – engage! When you find a role that excites you, reach out directly to the hiring manager or recruiter. A quick message expressing your interest can set you apart from the crowd and show that you’re genuinely keen on the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep it real with follow-ups! After interviews or networking chats, send a thank-you note or a quick follow-up email. It’s a great way to reinforce your interest and keep you top of mind for any future opportunities. Plus, it shows you’re professional and courteous!
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Recruitment Consultant - Legal in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Managing Consultant role. Highlight your leadership ambitions and any relevant achievements in legal recruitment to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for legal recruitment and how you envision contributing to our growth in Manchester. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Include specific metrics or examples of how you've excelled in previous roles, especially in billing and team leadership.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Search
✨Know Your Legal Market
Before the interview, dive deep into the Northern legal market. Understand the key players, trends, and challenges. This knowledge will not only impress but also show your genuine interest in the role and the company.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Ambition
Since this role is about building and leading a team, be ready to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Share specific examples of how you've mentored others or led projects, highlighting your collaborative approach.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Think of scenarios where you had to make tough choices or manage conflicts, especially in a recruitment context. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Align with Company Values
Familiarise yourself with Henderson Scott's values and culture. During the interview, express how your personal values align with theirs. This connection can set you apart as a candidate who fits well within their team-oriented environment.