Job Title: Head of HR & Operations / Practice Manager\n Reporting to: Directors\n Direct Reports: Reception and Archiving Staff\n Location: Coventry \n Salary: £50-60,000\n \n 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. \n\nThe postholder will work closely with the Directors to drive operational excellence, ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulations, and contribute to strategic planning.\n \n Key Responsibilities: Office & Facilities Management\n \nOversee general office upkeep, repairs, refurbishments, and procurement of furniture and equipment.

\nManage office suppliers and negotiate/renew supplier contracts (utilities, maintenance, cleaning, etc.). \nLiaise with landlords regarding premises-related matters. \nOrganise and maintain off-site archiving, including regular clearance of archived materials.

\nRenew and manage building, office, employer's liability, and public liability insurance policies. \nSchedule annual servicing (e.g., boilers) and ensure ongoing workplace compliance. Human Resources Management\n \nLead the full employee lifecycle including recruitment, onboarding, induction, terminations, and exit interviews.

\nDraft and manage employment contracts and HR documentation. \nMaintain and update personnel records, training logs, and development plans. \nMonitor holiday and sickness absence records, including authorising leave and maintaining return-to-work documentation.

\nCoordinate and oversee staff appraisals, including direct responsibility for Reception and Archiving staff. \nPrepare appraisal summaries and reports for senior management. \nSupport the business with employee relations matters and general HR queries.

\nEnsure compliance with pensions legislation and manage private healthcare renewals. Training & Development\n \nOrganise internal and external training programmes, including H&S and fire safety training. \nMaintain relationships with training providers and manage associated contracts.

\nIdentify training needs and ensure appropriate development support is in place across the business. Health & Safety (H&S)\n \nAct as Health & Safety and Fire Safety Officer. \nConduct and review fire risk assessments and Health & Safety procedures annually.

\nMaintain fire safety records, coordinate fire drills, and conduct workstation assessments. \nEnsure PAT testing and general workplace hazard checks are conducted regularly. \nMaintain accident records and implement actions from incidents or near-misses.

Business Operations & Compliance\n \nMaintain and test the firm's Business Continuity Plan in collaboration with senior management. \nLead policy development and compliance with Lexcel and regulatory frameworks. \nOversee office manuals, policies and procedures covering areas such as Equality & , Information Security, Recruitment, Induction, Performance Management, and Whistleblowing.

\nManage and renew key insurance policies including Management Liability, Cyber, and Directors' Life Cover. \nCoordinate file storage, secure disposal processes, and document shredding schedules. \nAttend management meetings and produce accurate minutes and follow-ups.

Finance & Administration\n \nAssist in budgeting and monitor operational expenditure. \nApprove supplier invoices and authorise financial payments including CHAPS, BACS, and internal transfers. \nAct as a cheque signatory and authorise Client to Office (CTO) transfers.

\nHandle incoming post and liaise with the Accounts department on document flow. \nArrange finance for business-related projects or purchases where necessary. Qualifications & Skills\n \nCIPD Level 5 or 7 qualified and/or relevant job experience \nProven experience in HR and operations management, ideally within a professional services environment.

\nStrong working knowledge of employment law, Health & Safety, and office compliance requirements. \nExcellent interpersonal, negotiation, and problem-solving skills. \nStrong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

\nProficient in Microsoft Office and general office systems. Benefits\n- Hybrid working options\n- 23 days holiday plus bank holidays with 1 day off for your birthday as an additional day.. Christmas shut down.\n- Free parking\n- Private medical care (on completion of probation)\n- Pension\n- Holiday buy scheme \n Full list provided on request\n \n 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)