Work under the supervision of Alan Horne to lead and support the Commercial Property team while managing a caseload of commercial property matters, including property acquisitions and refinancing transactions, within deadlines imposed by auctioneers and clients.
The role is responsible for the smooth and effective day-to-day running of the team, maintaining high standards of client service, compliance and file progression. The post-holder will provide guidance, instruction and direction to team members, allocate and monitor workloads, and support individuals to achieve shared departmental goals and monthly targets.
The post-holder will keep clients and all other parties updated, work collaboratively with colleagues across the firm, and provide expert legal advice, prepare legal documentation and represent clients in relevant legal matters.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and manage the strategy for each matter, taking clients’ instructions and providing clear legal advice throughout the transaction
- Proactively work with your team to progress the matter.
- Communicate with clients to provide updates and obtain information to progress the matter.
- Liaise with solicitors, lenders, agents and other relevant parties.
- Obtain relevant documentation for the matter, including ordering searches, obtaining documents from the Land Registry and Companies House.
- Preparing documentation relevant to the matter, including completion statements, payment request forms, Stamp Duty forms, Land Registry Applications and documents for engrossment.
- Submitting documentation, including Stamp Duty forms, Land Registry Application etc.
- Carry out AML checks, file reviews and risk assessments.
- Accurately maintain an up-to-date electronic record of the activity on the matter.
- Liaise effectively with the Commercial Property team and colleagues in other departments across the firm.
- Liaise with the Compliance team and support staff, and adhere to all Company policies and procedures.
- Take responsibility for the day-to-day management and performance of the Commercial Property team.
- Provide clear guidance, instruction and direction to team members to support the achievement of shared departmental goals.
- Allocate and monitor workloads, priorities and key deadlines to ensure matters are progressed efficiently and client expectations are managed.
- Conduct regular team catch-ups, provide constructive feedback and support the training and development of team members.
- Monitor the Case Management System, file progression and team activity to ensure records are accurate, up to date and compliant with internal processes.
- Promote strong communication and collaboration within the Commercial Property team and with other departments across the firm.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clients and key stakeholders, ensuring communication is proactive, professional and tailored to their needs.
- Monitor performance against departmental objectives and monthly targets, identifying and addressing issues promptly.
- Support recruitment, induction and ongoing development within the team where required.
- Act as a positive role model, encouraging accountability, high standards and a supportive team culture.
Person Specification
Qualifications & Training:
- Current practising certificate and qualification as a solicitor or equivalent legal professional. (Essential)
- Additional management or leadership training. (Desirable)
Experience:
- Proven experience managing a commercial property caseload. (Essential)
- Experience of supervising, supporting or leading colleagues within a legal environment. (Essential)
- Experience working directly with clients and key stakeholders. (Essential)
- Previous formal team leadership or line management experience. (Desirable)
- Experience working in a fast-paced office environment. (Desirable)
Qualities & Attitudes:
- Leadership: able to provide guidance, instruction and direction to a team to achieve shared goals. (Essential)
- Organisation: able to manage personal and team workloads, competing priorities and deadlines autonomously. (Essential)
- Communication: confident and professional when communicating with clients, colleagues, solicitors and other industry professionals. (Essential)
- Written communication: excellent spelling, grammar and drafting skills. (Essential)
- Attention to detail: a high level of accuracy when preparing legal documents, forms and statements. (Essential)
- Teamwork: able to collaborate effectively across the department and wider firm. (Essential)
- Strong sense of discretion, sound judgement and a professional manner. (Essential)
- Able to remain calm and effective under pressure. (Essential)
- Confident IT skills, as most work is carried out electronically. (Essential)
Knowledge:
- Strong working knowledge of commercial property transactions, relevant legal terminology and compliance requirements. (Essential)
- Competent in Microsoft Office and legal case management systems. (Essential)
- Ability to work confidently with legal technology, including HM Land Registry filing, computer systems, transcription software and digital dictation. (Desirable)
We Offer
- Easily accessible North Bristol location
- Free onsite parking
- Great public transport links
- Paid bank holidays
Note: This job list is not exhaustive and will be subject to periodic review. It may be amended to meet the changing needs of the business.
The Post-holder will be expected to participate in this process and we will aim to reach an agreement on any changes.Â