Practice Manager - Legal & Democratic Services

Location: Kendal Contract Type: Permanent

About this opportunity Westmorland and Furness Council is seeking an experienced legally qualified Practice Manager to oversee the day-to-day operation of the Council’s in-house legal service. Reporting to the Senior Manager- Legal, this role will play a central part in ensuring the department operates efficiently, remains fully compliant with regulatory requirements and continues to deliver high standards of client service.

So if you are a great communicator and team player and want to support delivery of the legal service’s transformation journey while overseeing operational systems, office management and business processes then this role may be for you.

The role also includes oversight of financial performance in collaboration with the finance team, producing service performance reports, monitoring financial performance and supporting the management of work in progress. In addition, you will assist with compliance processes including regulatory obligations, file management procedures and internal reporting systems.

Alongside operational responsibilities, you will support recruitment and staff development processes, oversee onboarding procedures and maintain records. The Practice Manager also oversees key operational systems including case management, working with the Council’s ICT team to ensure systems are secure and operating effectively.

This role will also support the management of new enquiries, ensuring instructions are handled efficiently. A positive experience for client services is a priority for the team.

Who we are looking for… The successful candidate will have previous experience in a Practice Manager or senior operational role within a law firm or legal department. You will demonstrate a strong understanding of legal practice management, financial performance monitoring and regulatory compliance requirements. You will possess excellent organisational and leadership skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a structured and solutions-focused approach. Strong analytical ability, commercial awareness and the confidence to work closely with senior leadership will be key. Experience supporting recruitment processes, managing administrative teams and overseeing operational systems within a legal environment will be highly beneficial. Familiarity with case management systems and knowledge of compliance frameworks such as Lexcel or CQS would also be advantageous. What can we offer you!

Working at Westmorland and Furness Council you will receive a variety of benefits, including a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave allowance and other various perks and discounts schemes. For more information about life at Westmorland and Furness Council and what we can offer you, please visit our Careers site. Our benefits | Careers (westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk)

Would you like to find out more?

For further information about this role, such as responsibilities and essential criteria please view the below attachments:

Post Specification Role Profile

Application and Interview information Closing date: 17th May 26 Interview date: W/c 25th May 26

We are currently operating both in-person and virtual interviews. Interview details such as venue/timings will be shared with successful candidates, following the shortlisting process. If you have any concerns or adjustments are needed, we are happy to discuss this with you.

If you experience any technical difficulties applying for this role, please contact the HR Systems Team at HR.Systems@cumbria.gov.uk.