Human Resources Manager- Legal

Human Resources Manager

London

£60,000-£65,000 plus excellent benefits

A leading national law firm is looking for an experienced HR professional to lead and develop its Trainee Solicitor Programme.

This high-profile role will oversee the full trainee lifecycle—from recruitment and onboarding through seat rotations, development and qualification. You’ll also lead the firm’s Vacation Scheme and provide trusted HR guidance to trainees, supervisors and senior stakeholders.

What you’ll be doing

• Leading the strategy and delivery of the Trainee Solicitor Programme
• Managing trainee recruitment, onboarding, induction and seat rotations
• Ensuring compliance with SRA requirements
• Supporting trainee performance, development, wellbeing and employee relations
• Coordinating appraisals, training and SQE study sponsorship
• Managing the internal NQ recruitment and qualification process
• Leading the end-to-end delivery of the Summer Vacation Scheme
• Advising supervisors and senior stakeholders on trainee matters
• Using data, feedback and market insight to improve the trainee experience
• Building relationships with professional bodies, course providers and external partners

What we’re looking for

You’ll be a commercially aware, highly organised HR professional with significant experience supporting Trainee Solicitors within a law firm. You’ll combine strong technical HR knowledge with the confidence to influence senior stakeholders and manage sensitive matters.

Essentials

• A 2:1 degree or equivalent
• CIPD Level 7, or currently working towards it
• At least three years’ experience within a law firm
• Hands-on experience of trainee onboarding, seat rotations, appraisals, performance management and qualification
• Knowledge of traditional Training Contracts and the SQE route
• Experience delivering assessment centres and Vacation Schemes
• Strong knowledge of HR best practice and employment processes
• Excellent communication, influencing and relationship-building skills
• Exceptional organisation and attention to detail

This is an excellent opportunity to shape the future-talent strategy of a respected professional-services organisation while supporting aspiring solicitors through every stage of their early careers.