Legal Practice / Risk & Compliance Manager

Position: Practice Manager / Risk & Compliance OfficerLocation: York (with hybrid working)Salary: £40,000 - £60,000 (depending on experienceWe are acting on behalf of a long-established and highly regarded regional law firm with a strong foothold in the Yorkshire legal market. The firm has a deeply embedded culture of professionalism, integrity and community trust, and continues to enjoy measured growth and a reputation for high-calibre legal services.As part of their continued evolution, an opportunity has arisen for an experienced and forward-thinking individual to take on a dual-capacity role that blends operational leadership with regulatory oversight. The role of Practice Manager / Risk & Compliance Officer is newly created and offers significant influence at the heart of the business.This is a pivotal position, designed for someone who thrives in a multi-faceted role and is passionate about embedding a culture of risk awareness, regulatory compliance and operational excellence across the organisation.Key ResponsibilitiesCompliance & Risk Management-Serve as the primary point of contact for all regulatory, risk, and compliance matters firmwide.-Oversee AML (Anti-Money Laundering), CDD (Customer Due Diligence), GDPR, and sanctions processes, ensuring full alignment with SRA and broader legal sector standards.-Lead and deliver internal risk assessments, compliance audits, and file reviews across multiple office locations.-Draft, review and maintain firm-wide policies and procedures to reflect changes in legislation, SRA guidance, and market best practice.-Act as liaison during SRA audits and inspections; maintain up-to-date records to demonstrate regulatory compliance.-Champion a culture of compliance across the firm, promoting continuous improvement and best practice through training and internal communications.Operational & Strategic Management-Manage and develop the firm's onboarding and induction process for new staff and lateral hires.-Oversee a small onboarding and compliance administration team, providing clear direction, support and leadership.-Evaluate and refine compliance systems and technologies; lead the implementation of new solutions where necessary to enhance monitoring and reporting functions.-Act as Client Services Manager - handling and resolving client complaints with professionalism and sensitivity.-Deliver firmwide training sessions and workshops, ensuring all staff are well-versed in regulatory requirements, data protection obligations, and risk mitigation processes.-Contribute to the wider operational strategy of the firm as a trusted advisor to the Partners, offering risk-based input on key business decisions.Candidate ProfileThe successful candidate will be both operationally astute and commercially aware. This is an excellent opportunity for someone seeking to step into a key strategic role within a progressive legal environment.Essential Experience & Attributes-Minimum of 3 years' experience in a compliance, operational or risk-related role within a law firm or another regulated sector (e.g., financial services, professional services).-Strong working knowledge of SRA regulations, AML legislation, GDPR, and associated risk frameworks.-Proven ability to influence and educate stakeholders at all levels.-Excellent communication skills, with a balanced approach to leadership and collaboration.-Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.-Technologically literate - able to assess and implement compliance tools, systems and workflows.Desirable-A legal qualification or law degree (preferred but not essential).-Prior experience of managing complaints and/or acting as a Client Services lead.-Familiarity with multi-office structures and the nuances of risk management across different teams and service lines.Benefits & Culture-A genuinely supportive and inclusive working environment with a commitment to long-term career development.-Structured, funded and tailored training opportunities.-Performance-related bonus scheme.-Enhanced holiday allowance, including paid closure over the Christmas/New Year period.-Subsidised city centre parking.-Long service recognition, including additional leave entitlements.-Access to subsidised legal services (after 12 months).-Active wellbeing programme, including mental health support, eye care contributions, team events and volunteering initiatives.Next StepsIf you are an experienced legal operations or compliance professional seeking a more influential and strategic platform - this is a rare opportunity to align yourself with a stable, well-respected and forward-looking firm. All conversations will be handled in the strictest confidence.To arrange an exploratory discussion or to submit your interest, please contact us directly on