Compliance & Ethics Manager

Thorntons

Flexible

Welcome to a very different kind of law firm. One that recognises its success is down to its people. Where you can be inspired by your talented work colleagues. Where you’ll feel part of a dynamic team. Where, right from the start, you will be trusted with responsibility. This is what a rewarding career looks like at Thorntons.

What to expect

At Thorntons, we uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and client care. Our success is built on trust, and as our Compliance & Ethics Manager, you’ll play a crucial role in ensuring that trust is maintained. In this role, you’ll be at the forefront of managing client relations, driving continuous improvements, and ensuring our firm remains aligned with the latest regulatory requirements. You’ll work with senior leadership, key stakeholders, and external regulatory bodies, making this a high-impact position with real responsibility from day one.

The Compliance & Ethics Manager will:

• Be the first point of contact for client and non-client complaints, ensuring they are handled professionally, efficiently, and with empathy.
• Work with the Client Relations Partner in investigating complaints, liaising with various departments to gather information and reach fair resolutions.
• Identify any patterns and trends in complaints, providing strategic insights to senior management to drive firm-wide improvements.
• Take ownership of the implementation and delivery of resulting actions, ensuring feedback leads to meaningful change across the firm.
• Collaborate on the development and implementation of compliance programmes, keeping our firm aligned with industry regulations and best practices.
• Monitor and report on regulatory developments, ensuring policies and procedures stay up to date.
• Act as the primary contact for regulatory bodies, including the SLCC, Law Society of Scotland, brokers, and insurers.
• Collaborate on key stakeholder training, helping to embed a culture of compliance and ethical excellence across the firm.
• Provide support and advice to colleagues on regulatory and ethical issues, including conflict of interest and client confidentiality.
• Manage the Client Relations team within the wider Compliance & Risk Department.

What we’re looking for

We’re seeking a proactive and influential compliance professional who can bring expertise, insight, and leadership to this critical role. The ideal candidate will have:

• In-depth knowledge of the Standards and Regulations governing Scottish law firms, with a strong understanding of ethical and professional conduct requirements.
• Proven experience in managing complaints investigations, delivering effective resolutions, and identifying key learning points.
• Experience in case management systems and compliance tools, as well as delivering compliance and complaints management training.
• Strong interpersonal and influencing skills, with the ability to work closely with stakeholders at all levels.
• A professional and empathetic approach to handling sensitive concerns.
• Educated to degree level (or equivalent relevant work experience).
• Previous experience in a compliance, risk management, or complaints handling role — ideally within a legal setting.
• A track record of leadership or management responsibility, with the drive to develop this further.

Why join us

This is an exciting opportunity to be at the heart of shaping a dynamic law firm’s approach to risk, ethics, and client relations. You’ll work closely with senior leadership, influencing firm-wide improvements and ensuring that compliance and best practice are embedded at every level. You’ll be part of a firm that values expertise, encourages innovation, and empowers its people to make a difference. If you’re ready for a career-defining role where your work will have a real impact, we’d love to hear from you.

Doing What’s Right

A great working environment is the first thing you’ll notice. One where you’ll be inspired and supported by your colleagues. Where we’ll help you achieve what you want from your career. Where you can have both flexibility and connection with our supportive culture. Where you are valued. Where your voice is heard and you can make a difference through our employee network groups.

As your employer

Our benefits package goes well beyond competitive remuneration and we recognise and reward your hard work - learn more at rewarding you.

For your Health and Wellbeing

Our Healthcare Cash Plan covers things like dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropody, therapy and health screening needs. Our mental health first aiders and access to a 24-hour counselling line provide support for your mental and emotional wellbeing.

For your Family

We offer sector-leading family-friendly policies and flexible working arrangements to help you enjoy the best possible work-life balance. Our inclusive policies include fully paid maternity, adoption or shared parental leave of 26 weeks, followed by 13 weeks on half pay and a phased return to work on full pay, as well as 12 weeks fully paid partner or paternity leave. We also offer paid leave for, assisted conception and IVF treatment, and for colleagues who experience loss.

Embracing Diversity and Inclusion

We strongly believe in a diverse and inclusive working environment: one that does not tolerate any form of discrimination at any level. We value a truly diverse workforce: we are all equally different. We celebrate our individuality: from gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, faith to life experience, we know our differences make us stronger, together.

For our Community

We’re proud to be part of the communities we serve across Scotland, that’s why we actively engage with charities that support them. From our annual Charity Wills campaign to regular fundraising and volunteering opportunities, our colleagues give back to communities with skills and advocacy as well as funds.

Apply online at thorntons-law.co.uk/careers