Early Careers Development Manager

Early Careers Development Manager page is loaded## Early Careers Development Manager locations:
Manchester time type:
Full time posted on:
Posted Yesterday job requisition :
R-06839
** Role Overview
** We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Early Careers Development Manager to lead the development and management of our future and current Trainee Solicitors and Solicitor-Apprentices. This pivotal role will oversee the full lifecycle of trainee and apprentice development, from pre-joining engagement through to qualification, ensuring a world-class experience aligned with our firm’s values and strategic goals. The role will also manage a high-performing team dedicated to delivering excellence in early careers programming.
** Key Responsibilities
** Development of Current and Future Trainee Solicitors
* Design and deliver a best-in-class trainee development programme, including induction, seat planning, secondments and international placements, performance reviews, and qualification processes.
* Partner with Learning & Development to ensure trainees receive targeted training aligned with legal and professional competencies.
* Provide coaching and support to trainees and solicitor-apprentices throughout their training programmes.
* Ensure that any performance issues are identified and addressed appropriately and as early as possible.
* Work with the firm’s law school provider to oversee future trainees during the law conversion and SQE preparation courses, offering tailored support to support talent retention.
* Lead the development of the Plus Programme and other resources to support exam success and professional development.
* Work closely with the Solicitor-Apprentice Specialist to ensure their university programme is developed fully and continually reviewed to ensure it remains fit for purpose and fit for the future.
* Work with HRBPs to ensure early identification and intervention for any wellbeing concerns or employee relation issues.

Stakeholder Engagement
* Collaborate with Partners, Supervisors, and HR colleagues to ensure consistent and high-quality trainee experiences across practice areas.
* Act as a trusted advisor to the business on trainee-related matters, including performance management and career progression.
* Own the relationship with our  law school training provider and lead the firm’s contribution to the City Consortium.
* Build relationships with the firm’s Affinity Networks to support inclusion and belonging for future and current trainees.

Programme Management
* Oversee the delivery of trainee rotations, secondments (domestic and international), and qualification processes.
* Monitor and report on programme effectiveness, using data to drive continuous improvement.
* Lead the design and delivery of virtual and in-person events to foster community and connection among future and current trainees and solicitor-apprentices

Team Leadership
* Lead, coach, and develop the Early Careers team in Manchester and London, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
* Set clear objectives, provide regular feedback, and support professional development for team members.

Compliance and Risk
* Ensure all trainee and solicitor-apprentice processes comply with SRA regulations and internal policies.
* Manage sensitive employee relations issues with professionalism and discretion, working closely with HR Business Partner colleagues to ensure the firm’s policies and processes are being followed.
* Champion mental health and wellbeing initiatives for future and current trainees and solicitor-apprentices, including training and access to support services.
* Track expected and actual budget expense, ensuring invoices are tracked and paid promptly and that budget measures are actively managed.
* Manage all maintenance grants and tuition fee costs for PGDL, LPC and SQE.## Skills & Experience Required
* Proven experience in early careers development, ideally within a professional services or legal environment.
* Strong understanding of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) and the evolving legal education landscape.
* Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence senior…