Lead Probate Case Manager - AI Team

Lead Probate Case Manager – AI team
Up to £65,000 dependant on experience (Work level 5)
We’re now working in a hybrid way, with colleagues dividing their time between home and any of our offices in Manchester, Sheffield, Bristol, or Stratford upon Avon.

Please note: In line with our internal mobility policy, we’d like to make you aware that a preferred candidate has been identified for this opportunity

We’re looking for an experienced probate practitioner to join our specialist AI team and help shape how artificial intelligence and other technology are used within Probate Operations.

This is a specialist Lead Probate Case Manager role combining legal and operational expertise, AI development and testing, continuous improvement, and the management of a small caseload of complex probate matters.

You’ll work closely with technology colleagues, data specialists, operational teams and third-party providers to turn probate requirements into practical solutions. You’ll help ensure that new tools are legally accurate, operationally workable, appropriately controlled and capable of improving outcomes for clients and colleagues.

You don’t need to be a technologist. We’re looking for someone who understands probate, can apply sound judgement, is interested in how technology can improve our service, and can explain legal and operational requirements clearly.

What you’ll do

• Help design, test and improve AI-enabled tools and processes within CLS
• Translate probate requirements into clear business requirements, test scenarios and acceptance criteria
• Identify legal, quality and operational risks and help ensure appropriate controls are in place
• Support the implementation, adoption and continuous improvement of new technology and ways of working
• Review and provide technical guidance on specialist probate documents, including deeds of variation, statements of truth and other estate administration documentation
• Manage a small caseload of approximately 15 complex probate matters
• Identify opportunities to improve client outcomes, colleague experience and operational efficiency
• Provide technical guidance, coaching and support to colleagues
• Work collaboratively with operational, technology and third-party teams to deliver practical solutions

The role does not carry formal line-management responsibility, but you’ll be expected to demonstrate leadership, share expertise and support the development of others.

What you’ll bring

We’re committed to making our roles as accessible as possible, so we only ask for the minimum criteria. To thrive here, you’ll need to bring:

• Significant experience managing probate and estate administration matters
• A recognised legal or probate qualification, or equivalent substantial probate case-management experience
• Strong technical judgement and problem-solving skills
• An interest in AI, technology and continuous improvement
• The ability to translate complex legal and operational requirements into practical solutions
• Experience coaching, mentoring or supporting colleagues
• Strong communication and stakeholder-management skills
• A commitment to delivering excellent outcomes for clients and colleagues

Why Co-op?

At Co-op, we’re owned by our members. And because we’re owned by you, we can do right by you. So when you join us, you’re not just taking a job, you’re joining a movement. We’re an organisation that puts people and communities first, and we’re powered by purpose. We want this to be a place where you can thrive, so you’ll also receive:

• An annual bonus (based on personal and business performance)
• 28 days holiday (rising to 32 with service) plus bank holidays 
• A pension with up to 10% employer contributions 
• Access to a subsidised onsite gym (at our Manchester HQ)
• 30% discount on Co-op products and 10% off other brands 
• Stream – early access to a percentage of your pay as you earn it 
• Virtual healthcare including GP appointments, mental health support, nutrition and fitness advice 
• 24/7 colleague support service 
• Training and support for your development and career progression
• Cycle-to-work scheme

A place you’ll belong

We’re building diverse teams that reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from everyone, and our support centre is an inclusive environment where all our colleagues can thrive.

If you have a disability, we’ll make reasonable adjustments to support you through the recruitment process. We’re also proud to be part of the Disability Confident scheme - if you’re disabled and you meet the minimum criteria for this job, we’ll guarantee you an interview.

Learn more about our recruitment process at Your Co-op Application Journey

Explore our commitments to diversity, inclusion and wellbeing at Diversity, Inclusion & Wellbeing at Co-op

As part of your application, you'll need to complete an online assessment. This assessment typically takes up to 50 minutes. If you're a current Co-op colleague, this does not need to be completed.