About Ashurst

Ashurst is a leading progressive global law firm with a rich history spanning more than 200 years. We are proud of our history and are future-focused, having expanded into new technologies through our NewLaw division, Ashurst Advance, and our consulting arm. Our in-depth understanding of our clients and commitment to providing excellent standards of service have seen us become a trusted adviser to local and global corporates, financial institutions and governments in all areas of commercial law. To find out more please visit www.ashurst.com .

Department/Role overview

To facilitate the smooth running of day to day trainee HR and development matters through efficient execution of operational practices and duties. Assisting in attracting and recruiting top-quality trainees and vacation visitors to the firm through campus engagement and events.

Main responsibilities

Programme Management

•  Collaborate with the Early Careers team to manage all aspects of trainee solicitors' induction.
•  Offer initial guidance and advice to trainees regarding practice and procedures, emphasizing performance management and personal growth.
•  Systematically coordinate seat moves, communicate with Trainee Partners, and escalate issues to the Senior HR Manager when needed.
•  Ensure the smooth operation of client and international secondment processes.
•  Meet individually with trainees regularly to monitor workload, development, and ensure appropriate division assignment.
•  Initiate appraisals and mid-seat reviews, providing support to supervisors as needed.
•  Conduct supervisor training and where applicable provide coaching for effective performance discussions.
•  Oversee the supervision and performance of trainees with Trainee Partners and relevant HR managers as needed.
•  Stay updated on regulatory changes.
•  Coordinate with the ASC People team to update the HR database every six months with seat/secondments, level codes, and payroll modifications.
•  Support the Senior HR Manager with the qualification process.
•  Facilitate a smooth transition to qualifying departments for those remaining within the firm.
•  Serve as the main point of contact for future trainees, managing the Keeping in Touch program.
•  Communicate with the University of Law to track the performance and development of future trainees.
•  Enhance the graduate program's return on investment by refining candidate experience, attraction to Ashurst, selection and assessment processes, and the development of legal skills and practice.

Attraction & Recruitment

•  Helping the early career team screen application forms
•  Interviewing candidates for vacation schemes and training contracts with the Early Careers Team.
•  Using feedback to aid in hiring decisions.
•  Using CV Mail for reporting with the Early Careers Team.
•  Assisting with vacation schemes, including briefing supervisors, organizing senior speakers and events, distributing tasks, and speaking at presentations.
•  Supporting the National HR Manager in recruiting top trainees and vacation visitors, particularly through campus programs and vacation schemes.
•  Helping vacation visitors with firm queries, applications, and interviews; conducting feedback sessions with the Early Careers Team.
•  Contributing to and presenting at in-house recruitment events.
•  Supporting the Early Careers Team with all attraction and recruitment activities as needed.

Risk and Control: Ensure that all activities and duties are carried out in full compliance with our regulatory requirements and internal policies.

Essential skills and experience

•  Proven experience in HR and the graduate/higher education market
•  Confident communicator at all levels with excellent relationship-building skills
•  Knowledge of HR best practices and employment law
•  Strong client focus and attention to detail
•  Persuasive, confident, and hardworking, with the ability to manage workload independently, especially during busy times
•  Flexible and proactive with a positive attitude and ability to generate new ideas
•  Team player who contributes to the success of the Early Careers team
•  Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Background checks

In order to comply with regulatory and client requirements, Ashurst will undertake appropriate vetting of staff. When applicants accept a job offer, Ashurst, alongside a specialist provider, will undertake professional verification and background checks. These checks are only undertaken with consent, and in accordance with our legal and regulatory obligations.