Senior Talent Acquisition Manager (FTC)

Senior Talent Acquisition Manager (12-Month Fixed Term Contract)London / HybridA leading professional services firm is seeking a Senior Talent Acquisition Manager to join its People and Culture team on a 12-month maternity cover contract, starting in December 2025.This is a unique opportunity to work within a highly specialised and profitable sector that blends consulting innovation and technology. The firm operates in a partnership model, with practice groups of trainees, associates, and partners supported by expert business services teams.The RoleReporting to the People and Culture Director, the successful individual will lead the Talent Acquisition and Development team, overseeing strategic hiring, onboarding, training, and employer branding initiatives. The role combines hands-on recruitment with strategic planning and leadership, supporting the firm’s ambitious five-year growth strategy.You’ll manage two direct reports and work closely with senior stakeholders across the business to ensure the firm attracts, retains, and develops top talent at all levels-from graduate trainees to senior professionals.The three key areas include; lateral recruitment management, overseeing the early careers function, and people development.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and mentor the Talent Acquisition and Development team, ensuring high performance and alignment with strategic goals.Manage all lateral hiring for fee earners and senior business support roles, overseeing the full recruitment lifecycle with a strong focus on candidate experience.Drive direct hiring initiatives and employer branding efforts to reduce reliance on external agencies while maintaining strong partnerships.Set strategic direction for early careers recruitment and development, supporting the delivery of market-leading trainee pathways and exam support.Oversee junior recruitment and development through coaching and support of the Talent Acquisition Assistant.Lead key programmes including employee recognition schemes and technical training courses for junior professionals.Champion diversity and inclusion initiatives, including external access programmes and inclusive hiring practices.Act as a trusted advisor to stakeholders, providing market insights and strategic recommendations.Support firm-wide learning and development programmes, liaising with providers and managing internal communications.Key ProjectsDesign and implement updated agency terms and recruitment processes aligned with the firm’s strategic vision.Represent the firm on industry-wide apprenticeship initiatives, contributing to the development of new career pathways.Enhance the firm’s careers page and social media presence to strengthen its employer brand.Support the rollout of a new expectations framework across all employee populations.The client is looking for

an experienced recruitment and development professional with a passion for building high-performing teams and delivering strategic talent initiatives. You thrive in fast-paced environments and enjoy working collaboratively to drive change.You’ll bring:A strong track record in lateral and early careers recruitment within HR or People and Culture teams.Proven experience managing and mentoring teams.Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills.Commercial awareness, ideally within the legal or professional services sector.Creativity and strategic thinking in designing new processes and initiatives.Experience with ATS and LMS systems.CIPD qualification (preferred).Why Join?This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of talent in a firm that values innovation, inclusion, and excellence. You’ll be part of a forward-thinking People and Culture team that plays a central role in delivering strategic change and supporting career development across the business.The SR Group (UK) Limited is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this ..... full job details .....