At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Principal Partner in managing real estate transactions and client communications.
- Company: Join Sheridans, a top London law firm with a rich history since 1956.
- Benefits: Enjoy a flexible work environment and opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a close-knit team where your ideas matter and you can make an impact.
- Qualifications: Real Estate experience is essential; strong organizational skills and attention to detail are a must.
- Other info: This is a 12-month fixed-term contract covering maternity leave.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
JOB TITLE : PA
GROUP : Real Estate & Development
TERM : 12 month fixed-term contract (maternity leave cover)
HOURS : Full-time, 9:30am – 5:30pm, Monday to Friday with one hour for lunch. A flexible approach to working hours is a must, overtime may be required at busy times.
During probationary period there will be the expectation to attend the office 4 or 5 days per week. Following this, attendance at least 4 days office working per week will be required, in line with the chosen office days of the Principal. Our hybrid working policy is discretionary and may be subject to change.
ABOUT SHERIDANS
Sheridans is a leading London law firm whose lawyers combine the in-depth legal knowledge and breadth of expertise and experience required to give unparalleled advice to their clients.
Since 1956, Sheridans has represented individuals and organisations across a wide variety of sectors, providing quality advice which is commercially focussed and personally delivered. Specialist lawyers in leisure, media and entertainment work closely alongside the firm’s corporate finance, employment, real estate and dispute resolution groups to provide a truly bespoke service to its clients.
ABOUT THE TEAM
The team advises clients across Sheridans’ core sectors, with typical clients including property investors/developers, owner-managed businesses, high net worth individuals, family trusts, large corporates and PLCs.
The team specialises in commercial property transactions including acquisition and disposal of sites for the purpose of owner occupancy, lettings or residential and commercial development, acquisition of mixed use investment properties, joint ventures, property finance, landlord and tenant matters, notably negotiation, and granting of leases of hotel and leisure space, retail premises, restaurants, office space, industrial units, location agreements and concession agreements.
The team provides a full service throughout the lifecycle of the transaction and beyond, providing input, exploring issues/options and viability, advising on all property related legal matters, utilising the depth and breadth of the knowledge of the team to navigate clients to the ultimate desired result.
ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY
We are seeking a PA to join our Real Estate & Development team at Sheridans. Working alongside the Principal Partner and supporting others in the team when needed, we are seeking an experienced individual with prior, direct Real Estate experience to join us and assist with Residential and Development property matters.
The successful individual will play a crucial role in directly supporting the Principal and in various property transactions. They will also have the chance to develop their career further by supporting the department. We offer a close-knit environment where you will be encouraged to fully participate, share ideas and become a key part of the team.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Consistently delivering a high-quality work product while managing deadlines
- Initiating and overseeing the file matter opening process, including due diligence and liaison with clients regarding ID documents, escalating to the compliance team when appropriate
- Assisting Principal with day-to-day matter transaction management (filing emails/documents, updating checklists etc.
- Audio Typing using digital dictation (BigHand) to produce and amend documents and correspondence
- Preparing both paper and electronic transaction bibles, including creating a detailed index, photocopying, scanning, and collating documents to be sent to the client and to be used internally
- Preparing files for closings and archiving
- Printing, organising and scanning documents and emails into the document management/file management system (iManage and Lawman)
- Extensive diary management for Principal: arranging meetings, lunches, and scheduling conference calls taking full ownership, chasing and liaising with attendees, both internal and external. Organising travel and preparing itineraries when appropriate
- Preparation and coordination of accurate client bills, including proof reading and amending narratives
- Preparing documentation
- Liaising with local authorities and agencies
- Conducting research
- Extensive document work, including drafting, amending preparation of redline/comparison documents and engrossments.
- Preparing small to mid-size development plot sale contract packs and setting up processes to standardise documentation by assisting with the preparation of template documents (e.g. contracts, leases, transfers, consents to dealing, DS1/DS3’s)
- Implementing reporting procedures (e.g. by way of preparation of spreadsheets to ensure that details are regularly updated), proactive transaction monitoring, assisting fee earners to ensure that any necessary matters arising during the transaction are dealt with promptly. Communicating with confidence in dealing with other parties’ solicitors under fee earner supervision.
- Effective use of the DocuSign system and management of the DocuSign process
- Initiating and overseeing the file matter opening process including collection of the relevant due diligence and liaison with clients in relation to ID documents, good knowledge of standard AML and Client ID requirements escalating to compliance team when appropriate
- Dealing with extensive post completion matters such as drafting and filing SDLT returns, registering charges at Companies House and Land Registry applications. Knowledge of registration deadlines, monitoring applications, promptly dealing with requisitions as appropriate
- Drafting documents such as statements of account, completion statements, contracts, transfers and other ancillary property documents
- Preparing plot sale contract packs and setting up processes to standardise
- Submitting standard property searches to our search provider (InfoTrack). Monitoring report returns
The above is not an exhaustive list of duties, and you will be expected to perform different tasks as necessitated by your changing role within the Firm and the overall business needs.
SKILLS, EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS
The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate the following:
Skills & experience
- Previous experience in Real Estate law – this is an essential requirement and only candidates with Real Estate experience will be considered
- Demonstrated high level effective experience as a Real Estate Paralegal or PA
- An in-depth knowledge of completing SDLT returns and Land Registry applications and forms.
- Intermediate to advanced skill level with the Microsoft suite (Outlook, Word, Excel), pdfDocs, PowerPDF, Adobe and DocuSign
- Familiarity with GDPR and ability to adhere to confidentiality / compliance procedures and the ability to act with discretion whilst maintaining privacy
- Calm under pressure, adaptable, flexible and patient given the nature of the work and clientele
- Willing to build relationships and liaise comfortably with people both internally and externally at all levels
- High level of organisation and time management skills. Strong attention to detail with good judgement, initiative and problem-solving skills
- Confidently able to multi-task, particularly when managing your workload under pressure, and working to any given deadlines
- A team player with a positive and ‘can-do’ attitude, who is friendly, professional, reliable, enthusiastic and confident to learn and ask for help
Qualifications
- A strong academic record
- Qualifications such as a Bachelor’s degree in law (LLB) or CILEx Level 3 Diploma for Legal Secretaries are desired, but not essential
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES
Our aim is for all staff to feel welcomed at Sheridans and ultimately be their true self at work. We are proud to promote inclusion & diversity among clients, candidates, and staff as an equal opportunities employer. It is our policy to support people who hold Protected Characteristics (under the Equality Act 2010) both internally and externally through supporting practices based solely upon merit.
HOW TO APPLY
If you would like to apply, please email us using Please reference where you found our vacancy advertised and include the following to allow us to consider your application:
- An up-to-date copy of your CV
- A covering letter
- Any details in relation to nationality and visa requirements, if relevant
- Your salary expectations
- Your notice period and availability to commence a role with Sheridans
Real Estate Personal Assistant employer: Sheridans
Contact Detail:
Sheridans Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Real Estate Personal Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the specific legal terminology and processes related to real estate law. Understanding terms like SDLT returns and Land Registry applications will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the real estate sector, especially those who work in legal roles. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of a PA in this field.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your organizational skills by preparing a mock schedule or plan for managing a busy Principal's diary. This practical demonstration can set you apart during the interview process and highlight your ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Sheridans as a firm and understand their core values and client base. Tailoring your conversation to reflect how your experience aligns with their mission will show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Real Estate Personal Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your previous experience in Real Estate law. Focus on relevant roles and responsibilities that align with the job description, showcasing your skills in transaction management and document preparation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the firm. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to support the Principal Partner and manage property transactions effectively.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasize your proficiency with tools like Microsoft Office, DocuSign, and your understanding of SDLT returns and Land Registry applications. This will show that you have the technical skills necessary for the position.
Be Clear About Availability: In your application, clearly state your notice period and when you can start. This helps the firm understand your availability and aligns with their need for a quick transition into the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sheridans
✨Showcase Your Real Estate Experience
Make sure to highlight your previous experience in Real Estate law during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific transactions you've worked on and how they relate to the responsibilities of the PA role at Sheridans.
✨Demonstrate Organizational Skills
Since the role requires extensive diary management and document organization, be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully managed multiple tasks and deadlines in your previous positions.
✨Familiarize Yourself with Relevant Software
Brush up on your skills with Microsoft Office, DocuSign, and any other relevant software mentioned in the job description. Being able to discuss your proficiency with these tools will show that you're prepared for the technical aspects of the role.
✨Prepare Questions About the Team and Culture
Show your interest in the team by preparing thoughtful questions about the work environment and team dynamics. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm for becoming a part of Sheridans and your willingness to contribute positively to the team.