Graduate Programme Development Manager

Graduate (EC) Programme Development Manager - 6-Month FTC Frazer Jones is delighted to partner with a highly regarded professional services firm in the search for a Graduate Programme Development Manager . This role plays a pivotal part in shaping the experience and development of the firm's Trainee Lawyer population, overseeing all HR-related people activity on a day-to-day basis. This position is initially offered as a 6-month fixed-term contract while the business evaluates its long-term structure.

There is potential for extension or a temp-to-perm pathway for the right individual.

Key Responsibilities Resourcing Lead the seat allocation process to ensure Trainee Lawyers are deployed effectively across the business in line with utilisation and resource needs. Partner with the Early Talent Acquisition team to shape resourcing strategy and secure top trainee talent across all practice groups. Monitor utilisation trends to support informed allocation decisions. Team Oversight Oversee all core processes and cyclical activities within the Early Talent Development function.

Act as a senior escalation point for the Early Talent Development team. Conduct regular 1-2-1 meetings with Trainees to discuss performance, development, seat preferences, and qualification interests. Performance Management Own the end-to-end appraisal and feedback processes for Trainees. Collaborate with Supervisors and Partners to identify performance gaps and implement action plans that support both individual and business success. Development & Training Oversee the full suite of pre-training contract sessions.

Work closely with Education Managers on practice area inductions and group-specific training. Partner with the Academy team to design and deliver impactful learning and development experiences for Trainees. Projects Maintain a strong understanding of firm-wide and practice-area strategy, including financial and business development goals. Lead and support strategic early talent projects that enhance the trainee experience and strengthen the firm's early careers offering.

About You To be successful in this role, you will bring:
Experience in HR within a law firm, ideally as an Early Talent Development Manager, HR Business Partner, or similar. Demonstrated expertise in managing early talent programmes, including development, performance management, and pastoral support. Experience working in a large, complex environment-professional services experience is highly desirable. A strong understanding of partnership culture and the dynamics of professional services firms. Availability at short notice, with an ideal start date in late January or early February .

If this opportunity aligns with your experience and career goals, please send your CV to Frazer Jones today. We look forward to hearing from you. The SR Group (UK) Limited is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.