Business Manager

Shoosmiths is the law firm clients choose for excellent service, incisive thinking and above all for our ability to focus on what matters. From offices across the UK and Brussels, we support some of the world’s most exciting and ambitious businesses; amazing clients making an impact. We empower our people to be their authentic selves and deliver together in supportive teams committed to excellence and innovation. The first top 50 law firm to achieve ‘Platinum Standard’ Investors in People, our values and culture are not just words on our website but are the heartbeat of the firm.

We have an outstanding benefits package to complement our competitive remuneration system. In addition to the competitive salaries, great working environment and high-quality work, we believe that all staff should be rewarded for their commitment to the continued success of the firm through a comprehensive and flexible range of benefits.

To discover more about our benefits, please visit: Benefits Package

Our award-winning corporate division is led by a team of partners widely regarded as leaders in their field who are regularly recommended by clients for their reputation, personalities and outstanding expertise. It encompasses Corporate, Banking & Finance, Corporate Restructuring & Advisory and Tax & Incentives departments operating, and advising clients, across the United Kingdom and internationally.

We are looking for an experienced business manager to join our team. You will be working alongside the head of the Division, and the heads of departments, to support the implementation of strategic initiatives and embed key initiatives that will drive performance improvement as well as optimising productivity and profitability.

You will be responsible for:

• collaborating with the finance team including leading the budget setting processes, monitoring, tracking and updating divisional and departmental financial metrics 
• driving improvements in operational and financial performance by identifying and understanding thematic financial, resource and operational trends, risks and opportunities through regular performance analysis, ensuring alignment with planned targets
• developing, updating and monitoring the business plan of the Division
• advising and supporting the Division in respect of key investment decisions, such as lateral Partner hires, exits, and promotions
• providing pricing support for significant mandates or pitches within the Division
• working with Business Partners from Business Services to identify areas for efficiency and technological improvements of the Corporate Division
• playing a key role in Divisional and business services initiatives (including in respect of technology), working alongside the leadership team in the Division and across the firm to drive improvements as required
• coordinating and lead Divisional activities and meetings encouraging positive and open communication

• Experienced in law firm operations including legal, accounting and finance
• Proactive approach with a highly effective ability to prioritise and manage a competing workload and important strategic priorities
• Excellent stakeholder engagement, influencing and communication skills, with a proven ability to bring people together to agree and achieve shared outcomes
• A team player with the ability to positively lead and deliver change
• Confident handling different types of data with experience in analysing business processes and financial modelling
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to evidence strong skills in analysis driving insight and action

Our approach to our people is underpinned by our approach to diversity, inclusion and well-being. Our ambition is to build a diverse and ambitious workforce that reflects all backgrounds and talents, and a workplace that is supportive and inclusive, recognises and nurtures talent, and has a strong sense of community between colleagues.

This means that everyone who either applies to or works for the firm is treated equally, whatever their gender, age, ethnic origin, nationality, marital status, disability, sexual orientation or religious beliefs.