Operations Manager

Job TitleOperations ManagerLocationBrusselsDescriptionAbout Ashurst Perkins Coie:Ashurst Perkins Coie is the globallaw firm for the future economy. With more than 3,500 client-facingpractitioners across 52 offices worldwide, we advise a broad rangeof clients, and have a distinct strength in technology, energy &infrastructure, and financial services
- three sectors at theforefront of economic transformation. Combining global scale, sectorinsight, and technological capability, Ashurst Perkins Coie helpsclients unlock opportunity with market-leading experience in complextransactions, litigation, and regulatory matters.
We support clients through a shiftinglandscape where technology, and AI in particular, is both anaccelerator and disruptor to their business opportunities andchallenges and is reshaping how energy, data, and capital moveacross markets.
To find out more please visitour website..
Role Overview:We are looking to recruit anOperations Manager to join our Brussels office, starting1 October 2026.
The Operations Manager will supportthe Brussels Office, reporting to the Director of Operations forUK/EMEA/US. The role encompasses line managementresponsibility as well as day-to-day Facilities Management for theoffice. This involves partnering with leadership andcross-departmental teams to address complex business challenges,managing multiple concurrent work streams, establishing newprocesses, negotiating with third-party vendors, and serving as aliaison to foster collaboration across the organization.
We are looking for a positive leaderwho can inspire and develop the entire team, ensuring that thefirm's processes are efficient, cost-effective, and aligned with itsstrategic goals.
Managerial ResponsibilitiesOversee the Legal Secretaries team andlocal operations staff regarding absence, performance management,and employee relations.
Participate in global Operationsmeetings for support, guidance, and sharing of best practices.
Office Environment and FacilitiesMaintain the office environment,including furniture, fixtures, security, and contractor management.
Oversee office supplies, equipment, andbeverage areas.
Coordinate reception coverage andprovide support as needed.
Manage general office administrationand compliance with local regulations (e.g., Recupel, IBGE).
Vendor and Contractor ManagementManage vendor relationships andcontracted services, including tendering, negotiation, performancemonitoring, and service level reviews.
Liaise with the landlord to ensurelocal requirements and firm strategy are met.
Manage global travel reviews and annualupdates of Brussels hotel arrangements.
Project Management and Process ImprovementLead projects focused on processreview, continuous improvement, and workflow optimisation.
Develop and implement efficientprocesses to manage operations and mitigate costs whilstsupporting Partners and legal teams.
Coordinate with other departmentsto ensure compliance with internal policies and legal requirements.
Governance ResponsibilitiesManage office expenditure and theannual budget in conjunction with the Finance team.
Manage the Brussels ESG programmein line with firm global standards.
Ensure compliance with BelgianHealth and Safety regulations.
Act as key contact for the Brusselsoffice within the firm's business continuity plan.
Liaise with central BusinessServices and Finance on insurance cover, including professionalindemnity and local regulatory requirements.
Serve as point of contact forsecurity dispatch staff (office alarm).
Support implementation of internalpolicies and lead local compliance initiatives.
Maintain active participation inlocal and global firm initiatives to align the Brussels officewith wider strategic objectives.
IT CoordinationAct as local IT liaison, overseeingmajor changes on laptops and mobile phones, including floorwalkingto support end users.
Manage laptop configuration, IT andtelephony set-up for newcomers, and mobile phone sourcing and configuration.
Carry out maintenance andtroubleshooting of server equipment under central IT guidance.
Human Resources and People OperationsManage onboarding for new joiners,including office familiarisation and IT set-up.
Liaise with the local law societyon updates and administrative matters to ensure partnership compliance.
Essential Skills and ExperienceQualificationsAt least 5 years of office servicesexperience in a professional services environment, preferably inlegal or professional services.
Experience in legal operations,legal administration, or a related field will be an asset.
Strong understanding of legalsoftware and case management systems.
SkillsFluent in English and French, Dutchwould be a strong asset.
Strong leadership, peoplemanagement, and change management skills.
Resilient, adaptable, and creativeproblem-solver with strong analytical abilities.
Excellent communication,interpersonal, and organisational skills.
Proficient in Microsoft Office andlegal technology applications.
Proven ability to manage multiplepriorities under pressure in a fa