Job Title: Head of HR & Operations / Practice Manager
Reporting to: Directors
Direct Reports: Reception and Archiving Staff
Location: Coventry
Salary: £50-60,000
My client, who is a well-established firm of Solicitors, is seeking an experienced HR & Operations Manager, to lead and manage the firm's operational, HR, and compliance functions, ensuring smooth day-to-day running of the practice. This includes oversight of office management, human resources, health and safety, training, and key areas of business support.
The postholder will work closely with the Directors to drive operational excellence, ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulations, and contribute to strategic planning.
Key Responsibilities: Office & Facilities Management
Oversee general office upkeep, repairs, refurbishments, and procurement of furniture and equipment.
Manage office suppliers and negotiate/renew supplier contracts (utilities, maintenance, cleaning, etc.).
Liaise with landlords regarding premises-related matters.
Organise and maintain off-site archiving, including regular clearance of archived materials.
Renew and manage building, office, employer's liability, and public liability insurance policies.
Schedule annual servicing (e.g., boilers) and ensure ongoing workplace compliance. Human Resources Management
Lead the full employee lifecycle including recruitment, onboarding, induction, terminations, and exit interviews.
Draft and manage employment contracts and HR documentation.
Maintain and update personnel records, training logs, and development plans.
Monitor holiday and sickness absence records, including authorising leave and maintaining return-to-work documentation.
Coordinate and oversee staff appraisals, including direct responsibility for Reception and Archiving staff.
Prepare appraisal summaries and reports for senior management.
Support the business with employee relations matters and general HR queries.
Ensure compliance with pensions legislation and manage private healthcare renewals. Training & Development
Organise internal and external training programmes, including H&S and fire safety training.
Maintain relationships with training providers and manage associated contracts.
Identify training needs and ensure appropriate development support is in place across the business. Health & Safety (H&S)
Act as Health & Safety and Fire Safety Officer.
Conduct and review fire risk assessments and Health & Safety procedures annually.
Maintain fire safety records, coordinate fire drills, and conduct workstation assessments.
Ensure PAT testing and general workplace hazard checks are conducted regularly.
Maintain accident records and implement actions from incidents or near-misses. Business Operations & Compliance
Maintain and test the firm's Business Continuity Plan in collaboration with senior management.
Lead policy development and compliance with Lexcel and regulatory frameworks.
Oversee office manuals, policies and procedures covering areas such as Equality & Diversity, Information Security, Recruitment, Induction, Performance Management, and Whistleblowing.
Manage and renew key insurance policies including Management Liability, Cyber, and Directors' Life Cover.
Coordinate file storage, secure disposal processes, and document shredding schedules.
Attend management meetings and produce accurate minutes and follow-ups. Finance & Administration
Assist in budgeting and monitor operational expenditure.
Approve supplier invoices and authorise financial payments including CHAPS, BACS, and internal transfers.
Act as a cheque signatory and authorise Client to Office (CTO) transfers.
Handle incoming post and liaise with the Accounts department on document flow.
Arrange finance for business-related projects or purchases where necessary. Qualifications & Skills
CIPD Level 5 or 7 qualified and/or relevant job experience
Proven experience in HR and operations management, ideally within a professional services environment.
Strong working knowledge of employment law, Health & Safety, and office compliance requirements.
Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Proficient in Microsoft Office and general office systems. Benefits
- Hybrid working options
- 23 days holiday plus bank holidays with 1 day off for your birthday as an additional day.. Christmas shut down.
- Free parking
- Private medical care (on completion of probation)
- Pension
- Holiday buy scheme
Full list provided on request
If you are interested in discussing the role or wish to be considered, please apply to (url removed) or contact me on (phone number removed)
