Job Title: Graduate Recruitment and Development Manager

Location: London

Working Arrangement: 12-month FTC – hybrid working

Requirements: Experience managing a graduate recruitment function in a law firm.

The Manager, Graduate Recruitment & Development, will be the primary contact for all staff and key stakeholders, delivering a comprehensive service that supports the recruitment, management, development, and qualification of trainee and apprentice solicitors in the London office.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary internal and external contact for all Graduate Recruitment matters, ensuring clear, consistent communication across the firm.
• Lead the full lifecycle of trainee and apprentice solicitor recruitment, from screening and interviewing to chairing decision‑making panels and refining the firm’s assessment centres.
• Drive employer branding and outreach by managing graduate marketing content, overseeing campaign activity, and representing the firm at key university and industry events.
• Lead the full trainee and apprentice development cycle, from six‑monthly seat allocation and one‑to‑one check‑ins to managing qualification, SRA processes, and performance oversight.
• Support supervisors and drive best‑practice development by coordinating mid‑seat reviews, guiding performance discussions, and ensuring appraisal processes are completed effectively and on time.
• Enhance the trainee and apprentice experience through structured forums, committee meetings, tailored inductions, ongoing development planning, and exit interviews where appropriate.
• Work with the Global Chief HR Officer and HR Projects team on global graduate recruitment initiatives

About You

• Experience in law‑firm graduate recruitment at Manager level, with strong knowledge of trainee hiring and development processes.
• Proven ability to design and implement initiatives that drive business outcomes.
• Strong communicator with the credibility to influence and build relationships at all levels.
• Skilled at securing engagement and collaboration across teams.
• Persuasive, adaptable, and comfortable managing shifting priorities.
• Resilient and confident delivering difficult messages.
• Creative problem‑solver who brings fresh ideas.
• Self‑starter with high energy and enthusiasm.

Application Process: For further information and to apply, please submit your resume. Due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to respond to all inquiries. If you have not received a response within 72 hours, please assume you have not been shortlisted.

We look forward to receiving your application!

Ryder Reid Legal is a recruitment specialist. For almost thirty years, we've been connecting legal talent with many of the leading law firms in London and internationally. Follow our LinkedIn page for our latest vacancies. https://uk.linkedin.com/company/ryder-reid-legal