About Ashurst
Ashurst is a leading progressive global law firm with a rich history, celebrating its bicentenary in 2022. We are proud of our heritage and are future-focused, having expanded into innovative 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.
Line Manager: Operations Manager for the Middle East
Role Purpose
The primary purpose of this role is to provide high-level Practice Executive support to Partners and Associates in the Casablanca office, while also acting as the central point of contact for all office administration relating to Operations, Facilities, HR, Finance, and Business Development. The role will ensure the smooth running of daily office activities, support business operations, and drive efficiencies across all administrative functions. This is a highly varied position requiring exceptional organisational skills, initiative, and a proactive, client-focused approach.
Key Responsibilities
Practice Executive Duties
- Provide comprehensive administrative support to Partners and Associates, including diary management, travel arrangements, meeting coordination (across time zones), and gatekeeping.
- Prepare, amend, and proofread documents, correspondence, presentations, and pitch materials, ensuring accuracy and adherence to firm standards.
- Manage email and file systems, ensuring appropriate document management and confidentiality.
- Assist with the preparation of engagement letters and client information packs, including research and analytics as required.
- Support the preparation of billing guides, creation and amendment of invoices, and time entry changes for Partners and Lawyers.
- Prepare WIP and ad-hoc financial reports, and coordinate the review of WIP and matter billings with relevant stakeholders.
- Train and onboard new Operations staff, providing guidance on office processes and systems.
Facilities & Office Operations
- Act as the main point of contact for all facilities-related matters, including building maintenance, cleaning, and liaison with external contractors and building management.
- Oversee mail, courier, and delivery management, including incoming and outgoing post, and arranging courier collections.
- Monitor and manage office supplies (stationery, catering, cleaning), placing orders as required and ensuring stock levels are maintained.
- Supervise office equipment (printers, coffee machines, water dispensers), including basic troubleshooting and replenishment.
- Coordinate office moves, furniture arrangements, and room set-up for meetings and events, including AV and IT equipment.
- Manage access passes and provide ad-hoc IT support (e.g., installation of basic hardware).
Administrative Support Across Functions
- Act as the administrative liaison for Operations, HR, Finance, and Business Development, ensuring effective communication and coordination between departments.
- Support the preparation and submission of data for sustainability reporting and other compliance requirements.
- Assist with the organisation and execution of internal and client events, including logistics, catering, and visitor management.
- Maintain and update databases (e.g., Interaction), ensuring accurate client and business information.
Business Development & Marketing
- Prepare and research client intelligence for pitches and marketing documents.
- Assist with the preparation of business reports, analytics, and PowerPoint presentations.
- Support the coordination and on-the-ground preparation of client events, including venue sourcing, invitations, and logistics.
Change Management & Process Improvement
- Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement best practices in collaboration with the Operations Manager in the Middle East.
- Assist with the development and implementation of firm initiatives and change programmes, including workflow design.
Key Skills and Experience
- Previous experience as an Executive Assistant or Practice Executive in a law firm or professional services environment.
- Strong organisational skills, able to manage multiple priorities and deliver to tight deadlines.
- High degree of initiative, proactivity, and problem-solving ability.
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in all work.
- Professionalism, discretion, and the ability to maintain confidentiality at all times.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across teams and with external providers.
- Technical proficiency in Microsoft Office and other firm systems.
- Experience in facilities or office management is highly desirable.
- Fluent in Arabic, French and English; additional language skills are an advantage.
Personal Attributes
- Flexible and resilient, able to adapt to changing priorities and demands.
- Client-focused, with a commitment to delivering high-quality service.
- Willingness to innovate and contribute to continuous improvement.
- Approachable, diplomatic, and able to build strong working relationships at all levels.
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.
