At a Glance
- Tasks: Support senior partners with diary management, travel arrangements, and document preparation.
- Company: Join a dynamic law firm that values inclusion and diversity.
- Benefits: Fixed-term contract with competitive pay and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities to learn and develop your career.
- Why this job: Be part of an executive team and make a real impact in a legal environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a PA in a legal setting and strong organisational skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Working in the Executive Team, the role will be supporting the Senior Partner and Managing Partner closely with two EAs.
HOURS: 9:30am – 5:30pm, Monday to Friday (working in the office 5 days a week). Flexible approach to working hours is a must. Overtime may be required at busy times.
CONTRACT: This is a fixed-term contract role covering maternity leave (1 year FTC).
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
- File fee earner emails promptly and accurately.
- Organise, cross-check, and scan historical documents, files, and emails using the Document Management System (Lawman/iManage).
- Prepare files for closings, including reviewing Client Account balances and liaising with fee earners and clients as appropriate.
- Type, amend, and proofread correspondence and documents, using track changes when required.
- Provide extensive diary management support, including coordinating meetings and requesting materials in advance.
- Organise detailed travel arrangements and meetings (including overseas), and prepare itineraries.
- Manage diaries, including scheduling client meetings, lunches, and conference calls.
- Accurately update and maintain fee earners’ client contact lists.
- Take and screen incoming calls, handling messages promptly and appropriately.
- Prepare and submit expenses for fee earners in a timely manner.
- Provide cover and general administrative support within the EA team as needed.
- Collaborate closely with other practice group PAs and business support departments (Finance, IT, HR, Facilities).
- Arrange personal appointments as required.
- Attend monthly ‘Sports Social’ meetings and prepare agendas.
CLIENT/HOD RELATED RESPONSIBILITIES TO THE SENIOR PARTNER:
- Initiate and oversee the file matter opening process, including due diligence and liaising with clients regarding ID documentation; elevate to the Compliance team when appropriate.
- Type dictations of correspondence and legal documents, including proofreading for final review.
- Prepare and coordinate accurate monthly billing narratives and client invoices.
- Assist with the preparation of bundles, including photocopying, scanning, and binding.
- Schedule appraisals.
- Circulate Accounts-related reports (WIP, disbursements, and client ledger balances).
- Distribute Compliance spot‑check reports.
- Review and approve holiday requests and expenses.
MANAGEMENT RELATED RESPONSIBILITIES TO THE MANAGING PARTNER:
- Prepare agendas and take minutes for the monthly Heads of Departments meetings.
- Provide minute-taking support for management-related meetings and draft and circulate meeting agendas as required.
- Assist with Quarterly Review (QR) meetings: Schedule 12 QR meetings each quarter. Minute 6 of these meetings (the EA to the Managing Partner will minute the other 6).
- Update the EP area of the intranet with minutes, spreadsheets, and other relevant documents.
- Update the firm’s website with staff changes as needed.
- Organise staff photo shoots by coordinating with photographers when required.
- Create or amend marketing materials, including departmental brochures, one‑pagers, and ad hoc brochures.
- Assist with the organisation of firm‑wide seasonal events.
- Provide light‑touch support and advice to other PAs on departmental events (e.g. invitations, badges, catering, setup, and on‑site support if needed).
- Carry out any other duties deemed appropriate for the role.
SKILLS, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:
- Proven experience as a senior Secretary/PA within a legal environment.
- Legal Secretary or other legal qualifications are desirable.
- Solid understanding of legal terminology.
- Strong English and Maths skills.
- Demonstrated ability to act with discretion, maintaining confidentiality at all times.
- Consistently produces high‑quality work while managing deadlines effectively.
- Takes ownership of tasks and completes them on time without needing reminders.
- Excellent typing speed and accuracy; proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Experience using Document Management Systems such as Lawman or iManage (preferred).
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; confident working with Partners, senior staff, clients, and external stakeholders.
- Skilled at building professional relationships both internally and externally.
- Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing demands.
- Exceptional attention to detail, including effective proofreading; uses initiative and exercises sound judgment.
- A collaborative team player with a positive, proactive attitude and resilient nature.
- Friendly, professional, enthusiastic, and eager to learn.
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.
Please note that we will not accept agency CV's or applications.
Application process: For further information and to apply, please submit your CV on LinkedIn. Due to the huge volume of applications, we are unable to respond to direct inquiries. If you have not received a response within 1 week, please assume you have not been shortlisted. We look forward to receiving your application.
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 equal opportunities employer. It’s 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.
Senior Personal Assistant / Executive Assistant in City of London employer: Sheridans
Sheridans is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and professional growth within the legal sector. With a focus on mentorship and business development, employees benefit from a supportive environment while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working in the vibrant city of London, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in IP and trademark law.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Personal Assistant / Executive Assistant in City of 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.
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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 Sheridans, 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 Personal Assistant / Executive Assistant in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Sheridans, 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 Sheridans and the specific role of Senior Personal Assistant / Executive Assistant. 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 Sheridans’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sheridans
✨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 Sheridans.
✨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 Sheridans.