overview.
Full-time or part-time
We are looking for a Compliance Assistant to assist the Compliance Officer for Legal Practice (COLP) in maintaining and improving the firm’s compliance framework, focusing on file audits, risk management, and supporting the preparation for Lexcel, ISO 9001, and Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) accreditation. The Compliance Assistant will play a key role in ensuring the firm’s policies, procedures, and operational standards align with regulatory and accreditation requirements.
responsibilities.
- File Audits and Quality Assurance
- Conduct regular file reviews to ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and procedural standards, identifying risks or breaches and proposing corrective actions.
- Maintain records of audit findings, track resolutions, and provide reports to the COLP.
- Develop and implement systems to monitor compliance with Lexcel, ISO 9001, and CQS standards, ensuring continuous improvement.
- Lexcel, ISO 9001, and CQS Preparation
- Support the COLP in preparing documentation, evidence, and processes for Lexcel reaccreditation, ISO 9001 audits, and CQS compliance assessments.
- Assist in reviewing and updating the firm’s policies and procedures to meet accreditation standards.
- Coordinate internal audits and ensure the firm adheres to its quality management systems.
- Provide administrative and organisational support during external assessments or audits.
- Policy and Procedure Management
- Help maintain the firm’s Office Manual, ensuring all policies, procedures, and workflows are current and aligned with regulatory and accreditation requirements.
- Reporting and Record-Keeping
- Prepare compliance and audit reports for the Compliance Manager and senior leadership.
- Maintain comprehensive records of compliance activities, including audit logs, risk assessments, and training registers, ensuring they are easily accessible for internal and external audits.
skills and experience required.
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Skills and Competencies
- Understanding of Lexcel standards, ISO 9001 quality management systems, and CQS requirements.
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail, particularly in conducting audits and identifying areas for improvement.
- Excellent organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to prepare reports and liaise with internal teams and external assessors.
- Familiarity with SRA Standards and Regulations, AML, and GDPR.
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Experience
- Previous experience in a compliance or risk management(preferably within a law firm).
- Hands-on experience with file audits and preparing for accreditation assessments such as Lexcel, ISO 9001, or CQS.
- Knowledge of legal practice management systems and compliance tools is desirable.
- Excellent organisation skills and IT skills with proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office.
apply for this opportunity.
Howell-Jones LLP is committed to providing equal opportunities and to avoiding unlawful discrimination in employment. We shall ensure that no job applicant shall receive less favourable treatment because of their gender, sex, marital or civil partnership status, sexual orientation, colour, race, ethnic origin, religion, disability or age.