Operations Manager

Phillips Solicitors Limited; Basingstoke; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional law firm is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee operational support functions and enhance efficiency across multiple locations. The role requires a strong background in operations management, financial acumen, and proven leadership skills. You will be responsible for process improvements and ensuring compliance with regulations. Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits are included in this full-time position.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in operations management in a professional environment.
• Proven track record of process improvement and operational efficiency.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operational support functions enabling legal activities.
• Lead process improvement initiatives using technology.
• Manage and coordinate non-legal operational functions.

Skills

Operations management

Financial acumen

Process improvement

Team leadership

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration

Tools

Operational technologies

Data analysis

Job description

Job Title: Operations Manager
Location: Basingstoke
Reports to: Managing Director
Direct Reports: 5–8 managers across Finance Operations, Facilities, IT Contracts, HSE, and Administration
Hours: Full-time (37 hours)

About the Role

The Operations Manager is a key management position responsible for coordinating and overseeing all operational support functions that enable the firm’s legal fee-earning activities. Working directly with the Managing Director, the Operations Manager ensures the smooth day-to-day delivery of business-critical services across multiple offices, while driving process improvements, cost optimisation, and innovation through effective use of technology and best practice.

About Phillips Law

Phillips Law was formed in 1986, and since then we have been committed to building the region’s strongest, most dynamic, full-service law firm built on foundations of traditional values.

In 2024 we continue to be featured in the Legal 500 – a globally recognised legal directory that serves as a comprehensive guide for clients seeking premium legal services.

At Phillips Law our values mean we pull in the same direction, tell it like it is, do the right thing, break the mould, and deliver on our goals.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Management & Coordination

• Manage and coordinate all non-legal operational functions with flexibility to attend other locations in Hampshire and, on occasion, London.
• Implement procedures and standards that support efficiency, profitability, and consistent service delivery.
• Lead process improvement initiatives using technology and data to reduce cost to serve.
• Partner with other areas in the business to identify and deliver optimisation opportunities within the operations function.

Contract & Systems Coordination

• Coordinate IT and systems contract management, ensuring effective vendor performance.
• Support contract negotiations and oversee supplier relationships.
• Monitor compliance with contractual obligations and escalate issues as needed.
• Assist in procurement of operational services and technology solutions.

Financial Operations Management

• Manage the Legal Finance Operations Team, covering billing, collections, and aged debt management.
• Monitor key financial metrics, including collection rates and outstanding debts.
• Implement processes that support efficient cash flow and billing accuracy.
• Ensure timely, accurate billing that supports fee earner productivity.

Facilities & Infrastructure Management

• Oversee facilities management across all offices.
• Manage warehousing and storage operations to support efficient document and asset management.
• Lead office relocations, expansions, and space optimisation projects.
• Maintain safe, productive, and supportive working environments.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Lead Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) compliance across all locations.
• Oversee physical, information, and personnel security measures.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements across operational areas.
• Maintain business continuity and disaster recovery plans.

Client & Administrative Services

• Manage front-of-house services to ensure excellent client experience.
• Ensure the delivery of the functions, events and meetings that support marketing, business development and brand, working closely with those functions.
• Direct printing and document management services (digital and hard copy).
• Ensure seamless administrative support for fee-earning teams.
• Line manage 5–8 direct reports across varied operational functions.
• Build collaborative, cross-functional working relationships.
• Develop talent within the operations function and implement succession planning.
• Drive a culture of accountability, performance, and continuous improvement.

Skills & Experience

• Demonstrable progressive experience in operations management in a professional environment or a similar role.
• Strong financial acumen, particularly billing, collections, and credit management.
• Proven track record of process improvement and operational efficiency with a practical and solution-focused approach.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field (desirable).

Technical Capabilities

• Working knowledge of operational technologies and systems integration.
• Experience with data analysis and operational reporting.
• Understanding of contract management and supplier relationships.
• Knowledge of HSE regulations and compliance.
• Familiarity with document management and workflow systems.

Management & Coordination Skills

• Strong team leadership and staff development experience.
• Excellent planning, organisational, and execution skills.
• Skilled stakeholder manager across multiple organisational levels.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to influence and negotiate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong cross-functional collaboration experience.
• Client-service orientation with professional presence.
• Cultural awareness to support a multi-office environment.

Measures of Success

• Financial Performance: Achieve a high level of billing accuracy and maintain efficient billing cycles, reduce aged debt, and support cost management targets.
• Operational Excellence: Deliver strong internal service levels and strong levels of internal staff advocacy and maintain full HSE compliance.
• Technology & Process Improvement: Implement regular and ongoing process improvements alongside reliable operational systems and reporting.
• Business Support: Ensure operational functions effectively support firm growth, budget control, the Managing Director and strategic priorities.
• Stakeholder Satisfaction: Build strong internal and external relationships, delivering a positive experience for both colleagues and clients.

Apply for this role

Please send your letter of application and CV to: