At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the transformation of due diligence processes using innovative legal technology.
- Company: Join Shoosmiths, a forward-thinking law firm focused on excellence and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible benefits, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to inclusivity and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving change in a collaborative and dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Experience in Corporate/M&A, strong communication skills, and a passion for legal tech.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
The role Shoosmiths is evolving how due diligence is delivered to improve quality, consistency, efficiency and client experience through enhanced ways of working and effective use of legal technology. The Due Diligence Transformation Lead will play a central role in driving the rollout, adoption and embedding of a new DD delivery model across the firm. This is not a traditional fee‑earning role, and not a pure project management or knowledge position. It is a change‑led, influencing role, working alongside deal teams on live M&A and Private Equity transactions. The role focuses on enabling teams to adopt better ways of working, ensuring consistency of approach, and supporting the integration of legal technology into delivery. Success will be measured by adoption, impact and behavioural change rather than personal delivery of due diligence.
The Team You will work at the intersection of Shoosmiths’ Corporate and Private Equity practices, collaborating closely with partners, associates, PSLs and business services teams including legal tech, innovation and IT. This role sits within a broader firm‑wide transformation programme focused on modernising due diligence delivery. It is a highly collaborative environment, where success depends on strong partnerships with senior stakeholders and shared ownership of change rather than individual accountability.
Responsibilities
- DD Model Rollout & Adoption
- Support the firm‑wide rollout of new DD ways of working, including tools, playbooks, templates and reporting standards
- Act as a visible advocate for the transformation programme across Corporate, Private Equity and relevant teams
- Work with partner sponsors to drive engagement, build momentum and reinforce adoption
- Stakeholder Influence & Engagement
- Influence a broad and senior stakeholder group, including partners, counsel, senior associates, PSLs and business services teams
- Operate as a trusted adviser to deal teams, working alongside them rather than acting as an external enforcer
- Communicate clearly, persuasively and credibly, including with stakeholders who may be resistant to change
- DD Process Oversight & Consistency
- Provide oversight of due diligence delivery to ensure alignment with agreed processes and quality standards
- Identify where approaches diverge from agreed models and support teams in course correction
- Surface recurring issues, inefficiencies and friction points to drive continuous improvement
- Legal Technology & Innovation
- Promote a technology‑enabled approach to due diligence, including the use of AI‑enabled tools
- Support the implementation and practical use of legal technology within live transactions
- Act as a bridge between deal teams and legal tech / IT functions
- Stay informed on market developments and proactively introduce new ideas and approaches
- Playbooks, Guidance & Enablement
- Support the development and rollout of playbooks, templates, guidance and training materials
- Help teams understand both the “what” and the “why” behind new approaches, including commercial and client benefits
- Change & Transformation Support
- Contribute to the wider due diligence transformation programme
- Collaborate closely with partners, PSLs, legal operations, innovation and technology teams
- Support sustainable, partner‑led change rather than acting as a single point of accountability
The firm
Shoosmiths is the law firm clients choose for excellent service, incisive thinking and above all for our ability to focus on what matters. From offices across the UK and Brussels, we support some of the world’s most exciting and ambitious businesses; amazing clients making an impact. We empower our people to be their authentic selves and deliver together in supportive teams committed to excellence and innovation. We have an outstanding benefits package to complement our competitive remuneration system. All staff are rewarded for their commitment to the continued success of the firm through a comprehensive and flexible range of benefits.
Key Skills & Experience
- Background in Corporate / M&A (private practice or in‑house), Corporate PSL, legal operations, or legal project management / transformation with exposure to due diligence
- Strong understanding of due diligence in M&A / PE transactions and associated commercial challenges
- Proven ability to influence and engage senior stakeholders without formal authority
- Experience driving adoption and embedding new ways of working in complex environments
- Interest in and practical understanding of legal technology, including AI‑enabled tools
- Strong communication skills with the ability to convey ideas clearly and with structure
- Collaborative approach, working effectively alongside cross‑functional teams in a non‑hierarchical environment
Desirable
- Experience implementing legal technology solutions
- Exposure to private equity transactions or high‑volume DD environments
- Understanding of law firm economics and partner‑led delivery models
Equal opportunities
Our approach to our people is underpinned by our commitment to diversity, inclusion and well‑being. We aim to build a diverse and ambitious workforce that reflects all backgrounds and talents, and a workplace that is supportive and inclusive, recognises and nurtures talent, and has a strong sense of community between colleagues. Everyone who applies to or works for the firm is treated equally, whatever their gender, age, ethnic origin, nationality, marital status, disability, sexual orientation or religious beliefs.
Disability Confident Employer Statement
Shoosmiths is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. The Disability Confident scheme replaces the Two Ticks Positive about Disabled People scheme. We have adopted a proactive approach to employing disabled people and developing their abilities. We commit to interviewing any applicants with a disability who meet the essential criteria for each vacancy. We are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible to everyone. If you have a disability or long‑term condition and would like information in a different way, or need adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact the Talent Acquisition team at Experienced.Hire@shoosmiths.com. We can provide a copy of our application via email so you can complete it with your own accessibility software.
Due Diligence Transformation Lead (Legal & Technology) in Leeds employer: SHOOSMITHS
Shoosmiths is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, empowering employees to be their authentic selves while driving meaningful change in the legal sector. With a strong focus on professional development, the firm offers comprehensive benefits and a supportive environment that values diversity and inclusion, making it an ideal place for those looking to grow their careers in a dynamic and forward-thinking setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Due Diligence Transformation Lead (Legal & Technology) in Leeds
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We think you need these skills to ace Due Diligence Transformation Lead (Legal & Technology) in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at SHOOSMITHS, 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 SHOOSMITHS and the specific role of Due Diligence Transformation Lead (Legal & Technology). 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 SHOOSMITHS’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at SHOOSMITHS
✨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.
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✨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 SHOOSMITHS.
