Head Of Operations

Description:

RECRUITMENTiQ is working in partnership with a successful independent Scottish legal firm seeking to appoint a Head of Operations to assist in realising its ambitious plans to develop the business significantly over the next 3-5 years.

The firm has a strong focus in 4 principal sectors; Land and Rural Business, Renewable Energy, Real Estate and Private Client, supported by growing Corporate and Commercial and Dispute Resolution practices. 

The firm is unusual in having appointed external, non-lawyers in both the Chair and Chief Executive roles. The present Chief Executive has many years’ experience in law firm management gained both in Scotland and England. Since his appointment in 2017, the firm has become one of the fastest growing large law firms in Scotland, with turnover of approximately £18m.  

With 29 partners and around 150 staff, the firm operates from offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Perth and has ambitions plans to grow and develop. the business is therefore creating a new Head of Operations role to assist the CEO and other members of the Senior Management Team (SMT) in their broad portfolio of responsibilities, allowing partners to focus on what they do best - servicing the needs of and growing their already significant client base. 

The Head of Operations will lead the operational aspects of the firm and will, together with other SMT members, develop and implement operational improvements to best practice, business workflows and processes including through the use of technology, as well as oversee projects involving the implementation of technology solutions throughout the organisation. In addition, responsibilities will include managing the firm’s 4 office properties supported by the Facilities Manager, supplier procurement, insurances, maintaining the firm’s written policies, controls and procedures (PCPs) and being an active member in committees responsible for risk management and ESG. 

This is a senior level hire and will report directly into the CEO alongside other functional heads on the SMT. Applications are therefore sought from interested candidates with relevant experience.  

The successful candidate is likely to have senior management experience gained in a professional partnership, SME or larger business/organisation. While knowledge of the legal sector is not a requirement, experience gained in any branch of the professional services industry will be an advantage. This role requires a combination of strategic thinking, pragmatic problem-solving, strong collaborative leadership skills, project management, conversance with technology, excellent communication skills and ideally a deep understanding of legal industry operations. A strong candidate will also demonstrate a track-record in delivering effective operational solutions and change management, and be financially literate, familiar with budget management. 

Applications detailing relevant experience and qualifications to undertake this interesting and stimulating role (not exceeding 1500 words) together with a CV should be submitted by 28 June 2024.

A more detailed specification is available on request.

The business is committed to providing equal opportunities in employment and demonstrating that they value the diversity of their workforce