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- Tasks: Provide top-notch secretarial support to legal professionals, managing diaries and correspondence.
- Company: Join Simmons & Simmons, a leading law firm known for its innovative culture and impactful projects.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, bonuses, private medical insurance, and flexible hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team where your ideas matter and you can make a real difference.
- Qualifications: Previous secretarial experience in a professional setting and strong Microsoft Office skills required.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are at our core; we celebrate differences and support flexible working.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
To provide fee-earners with proactive and high-quality secretarial support that appropriately meets their requirements, enabling them to focus on providing legal services to clients and reducing the need for them to undertake administrative tasks.
Location: London
Job type: Full Time, Permanent
Reports to: Secretarial Manager
What will you do:
- Diary and contact management: Proactively manage and maintain fee-earners' diaries, scheduling appointments and co-ordinating internal and external client meetings.
- Monitoring and responding to post and/or emails, prioritising correspondence to enable fee-earners to focus on urgent matters.
- Organising travel arrangements through the firm’s travel company, booking and confirmation of reservations, flights, hotels, car transfers, ordering currency and expense claims.
- Day-to-day administrative tasks such as photocopying, scanning and demonstrating the ability to delegate to appropriate department(s).
- Effectively manage new client matter opening and any additional tasks and duties relating to this process.
- Organise document management, including closing of files, archiving and ensure that all relevant documents are filed electronically and paper-based.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the end-to-end billing process and assist fee-earners by proactively leading on relevant administrative processes.
- Prepare WIP reports to be reviewed by fee-earners.
- Support fee-earners with maintenance of InterAction; ensure new business contact details are entered and contacts from fee-earners Outlook address book are shared.
- Support fee-earners with the preparation of speaker CVs and formatting of speaker materials.
- Drafting letters and correspondence as required. Proof-reading all work to ensure that completed documents are delivered accurately and to a consistently high standard.
- Preparation of agendas, presentations and meeting papers, including print production and timely distribution.
- Maintenance of CVs; maintaining fee-earner CVs on CV Bank and the website.
What we are looking for:
- Experience working as a secretary within a professional services environment.
- Good working knowledge of all Microsoft applications.
- Client service orientated approach.
- A proven working understanding of teamwork.
- Advanced communication skills at all levels.
- Attention to detail and discretion with confidential information.
Here at Simmons & Simmons:
Simmons & Simmons is a place where dynamic minds thrive. Our culture is built on work that matters, you will work on inspirational and thought-provoking projects, using your influence to create positive impact for our clients, society and the planet.
Equal opportunities:
We are committed to promoting equality and diversity in the firm and to equal opportunities in employment.
Secretary - Derivatives & Trading employer: Simmons & Simmons
Contact Detail:
Simmons & Simmons Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Secretary - Derivatives & Trading
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific software and tools mentioned in the job description, such as document management systems and financial recording applications. Being able to demonstrate your proficiency in these areas during an interview can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Research Simmons & Simmons' culture and values thoroughly. Understanding their commitment to diversity, teamwork, and client service will help you align your responses in interviews and show that you're a great fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed multiple tasks or projects in a high-pressure environment. This role requires excellent organisational skills, so showcasing your ability to prioritise effectively will be crucial.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of Simmons & Simmons if possible. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and the expectations for the Secretary role, which can help you tailor your approach during the application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Secretary - Derivatives & Trading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in secretarial roles, particularly within professional services. Emphasise skills like diary management, client communication, and document preparation that align with the job description.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the role and how your skills can support fee-earners effectively. Mention specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to manage administrative tasks and provide high-quality support.
Highlight Technical Skills: Since the role requires good knowledge of Microsoft applications and document management systems, ensure you mention any relevant software experience. If you've used tools like Intapp or Chrome River, include these details to strengthen your application.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is crucial for a secretary role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Simmons & Simmons
✨Research the Company
Before your interview, take some time to learn about Simmons & Simmons. Understand their values, culture, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
As a Secretary, you'll need to showcase your ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently. Prepare examples of how you've successfully handled diary management, travel arrangements, or administrative tasks in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle pressure. Think of scenarios where you've had to prioritise tasks or resolve conflicts, and be ready to discuss these experiences in detail.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be prepared to discuss how you've interacted with clients and colleagues in the past. Highlight your experience in drafting correspondence and managing communications on behalf of others.
