About Ashurst:

Ashurst is a leading global law firm with a history spanning over 200 years, and a clear strategy for our future growth. Our in-depth understanding of our clients and commitment to providing exceptional 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 here.

Role Overview:

We are looking to recruit an Operations Manager to join our Brussels office, starting 1 October 2026.

The Operations Manager will support the Brussels Office, reporting to the Director of Operations for UK/EMEA/US.

The role encompasses line management responsibility as well as day-to-day Facilities Management for the office. This involves partnering with leadership and cross-departmental teams to address complex business challenges, managing multiple concurrent work streams, establishing new processes, negotiating with third-party vendors, and serving as a liaison to foster collaboration across the organization.

We are looking for a positive leader who can inspire and develop the entire team, ensuring that the firm's processes are efficient, cost-effective, and aligned with its strategic goals.

Managerial Responsibilities

• Oversee the Legal Secretaries team and local operations staff regarding absence, performance management, and employee relations.
• Participate in global Operations meetings for support, guidance, and sharing of best practices.

Office Environment and Facilities

• Maintain the office environment, including furniture, fixtures, security, and contractor management.
• Oversee office supplies, equipment, and beverage areas.
• Coordinate reception coverage and provide support as needed.
• Manage general office administration and compliance with local regulations (e.g., Recupel, IBGE).

Vendor and Contractor Management

• Manage vendor relationships and contracted services, including tendering, negotiation, performance monitoring, and service level reviews.
• Liaise with the landlord to ensure local requirements and firm strategy are met.
• Manage global travel reviews and annual updates of Brussels hotel arrangements.

Project Management and Process Improvement

• Lead projects focused on process review, continuous improvement, and workflow optimisation.
• Develop and implement efficient processes to manage operations and mitigate costs whilst supporting Partners and legal teams.
• Coordinate with other departments to ensure compliance with internal policies and legal requirements.

Governance Responsibilities

• Manage office expenditure and the annual budget in conjunction with the Finance team.
• Manage the Brussels ESG programme in line with firm global standards.
• Ensure compliance with Belgian Health and Safety regulations.
• Act as key contact for the Brussels office within the firm's business continuity plan.
• Liaise with central Business Services and Finance on insurance cover, including professional indemnity and local regulatory requirements.
• Serve as point of contact for security dispatch staff (office alarm).
• Support implementation of internal policies and lead local compliance initiatives.
• Maintain active participation in local and global firm initiatives to align the Brussels office with wider strategic objectives.

IT Coordination

• Act as local IT liaison, overseeing major changes on laptops and mobile phones, including floorwalking to support end users.
• Manage laptop configuration, IT and telephony set-up for newcomers, and mobile phone sourcing and configuration.
• Carry out maintenance and troubleshooting of server equipment under central IT guidance.

Human Resources and People Operations

• Manage onboarding for new joiners, including office familiarisation and IT set-up.
• Liaise with the local law society on updates and administrative matters to ensure partnership compliance.

Essential Skills and Experience

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of office services experience in a professional services environment, preferably in legal or professional services.
• Experience in legal operations, legal administration, or a related field will be an asset.
• Strong understanding of legal software and case management systems.

Skills

• Fluent in English and French, Dutch would be a strong asset.
• Strong leadership, people management, and change management skills.
• Resilient, adaptable, and creative problem-solver with strong analytical abilities.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and legal technology applications.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborative approach, working effectively with partners, associates, and cross-functional teams.

What makes Ashurst a great place to work?

• A competitive remuneration with the flexibility to reward high performance.
• A supportive and inclusive work environment.
• A global professional development offering for all employees.
• An industry-leading programme that celebrates diversity and inclusion.