Business Services Placement Year London

An introduction to Arnold and Porter LLP

Arnold & Porter LLP is a leading international law firm with 15 offices globally. The firm is a trusted adviser to a wide range of leading multinational and domestic organisations and we are globally renowned for our regulatory, transactional, and dispute resolution experience.

The role

Our business services staff play an essential role in our success as a firm. We have a dynamic team who value and share the firm’s long-standing commitment to professional excellence, the highest ethical standards, diversity, collegiality, and community service.

During your placement year you will be sharing your time across our various business services departments:

You will spend three months in each department to give you an insight in to the different types of work and projects you can get involved in. We’ll encourage you to improve processes and introduce new ones as you contribute to the team as well as the firm as a whole.

Information Technology (IT):

The IT Department provides modern solutions that help make routine tasks easier and more efficient for our lawyers and professional staff so that we can provide premiere client service. We take pride in delivering excellent customer service to the London office and being available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year. The IT Department is responsible for the safety and integrity of client data and compliance with applicable contractual obligations. We also provide modern communication tools, including the latest audio visual technology for a robust video conferencing environment that allows seamless communication internally between staff and externally with our clients.

Accounts:

The Accounts team act as a hub for all the international offices, processing the daily transactions from invoices paid to vendors to invoices issued to clients with everything in between. We are responsible for making sure that the finance operations outside of the U.S. provide seamless service firmwide.

Human Resources:

The team comprises both general administration and HR expertise. We are responsible for the smooth running of the London office and ensuring we adhere to SRA guidelines for compliance, as well as the appropriate government guidelines and employment relation matters. The HR team runs Training, Trainee intake, Diversity& Inclusion, and CSR for the London office. We recruit for both associates and professional staff. Our entire team has a wealth of experience — both in law firms and professional firms — and aim to be welcoming to our employees and help transition them throughout their career at Arnold & Porter.

Marketing:

The Marketing Department has a broad mandate in support of the business objectives of the firm. The team oversees the following functions: business development; business intelligence; client relationship management; brand and content management; PR/media relations; client events; and firm retreats.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Our Corporate Social Responsibility work includes supporting local communities through volunteer and charitable activities; cultivating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is comfortable being themselves; representing NGO’s, individuals, charitable organisations, and minorities through pro bono; promoting good mental health and well-being for all; and contributing to reducing our impact on the environment. The London office has a particular focus on social mobility widening access to the legal profession through work experience and mentoring. The team is responsible for shaping, developing, and driving the office’s Corporate Responsibility activities, as well as implementing, coordinating, and facilitating a range of activities and initiatives in line with the firm’s global strategy.

The firm promotes a collaborative environment, therefore you may find that whilst you are working in one department, you may undertake work in another.

Who we are looking for

You will need to demonstrate a genuine interest and passion for business services. We welcome those from a wide variety of disciplines and all degree backgrounds.

Candidates should be self-motivated and demonstrate their ability to get involved in a wide range of extracurricular activities outside studies and demonstrating a good level of achievement in all areas. We value communication skills and look for experience working in teams and taking on responsibility. We also want to get a sense of your enthusiasm, energy, and commitment.

Professional Development

Throughout the placement, you will have the opportunity to build your skills, gain insight into different business services roles, and foster your creativity.

You will be allocated a buddy and receive continuous support from your managers for the duration of the placement. You will also be given the opportunity to continue your development with 24/7 access to our e-learning system.

Salary and Benefits

Salary: £28,000 per annum.

Students who are accepted to our program will be entitled to 20 days of paid annual leave, calculated on a pro rata basis per calendar year, in addition to all English bank/public holidays.

Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity is paramount to the firm. Our London office is a vigorous supporter in every aspect to promote an inclusive, fair, and ethical work place. We are proudly committed to several initiatives to encourage and maintain Arnold & Porter's diverse community of professionals.