Senior Research Librarian

Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer is a world-leading global law firm, where our ambition is to help you achieve your goals.

 

Exceptional client service and the pursuit of excellence are at our core. We invest in and care about our client relationships, which is why so many are longstanding. We enjoy breaking new ground, as we have for over 170 years.

 

As a fully integrated transatlantic and transpacific firm, we are where you need us to be. Our footprint is extensive and committed across the world’s largest markets, key financial centres and major growth hubs.

 

At our best tackling complexity and navigating change, we work alongside you on demanding litigation, exacting regulatory work and complex public and private market transactions. We are recognised as leading in these areas.

 

We are immersed in the sectors and challenges that impact you. We are recognised as standing apart in energy, infrastructure and resources. And we’re focused on areas of growth that affect every business across the world.

 

All of this is achieved by supporting the growth of our people, who help us deliver on our ambition – which is to help you achieve yours.

 

Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer: Your goals. Our ambition

The Opportunity

Key Responsibilities

The Senior Research Librarian is a pivotal member of the global Knowledge and Research team, supporting the legal and business information needs of the firm. This role has a particular focus on procurement, working closely with the Vendor and Subscription Manager UK, EMEA & US, to ensure the firm’s information resources are strategically sourced, managed, and promoted for maximum value and efficiency.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Demonstrate leadership within the Research team, contributing to development activities and strategic initiatives.

• Lead or participate in internal groups focused on content procurement.

• Support the Senior Research Manager in implementing strategies aligned with firm objectives.

• Collaborate proactively with stakeholders to understand information needs and deliver bespoke solutions.

• Contribute to the development and maintenance of Research policies and procedures.

Procurement & Collection Development

• Play a key role in procurement processes, including negotiating new contracts and renewals, financial reporting, product evaluation, invoice processing, and vendor relationship management.

• Support the Vendor and Subscription Manager in strategic supplier negotiations and budget submissions.

• Liaise with the internal Procurement Team to ensure adherence to firmwide policies and align with Research specific procedures.

• Use library and resource management systems to track, analyse, and report on database usage.

• Engage with stakeholders to evaluate resource requirements and promote resources to ensure return on investment.

 

Research Services

• Deliver high-quality legal and business research using a wide range of online and hardcopy resources.

• Provide research on sectors, markets, and companies to support client pitches and business development.

• Produce reports on usage trends and research to inform resource decisions.

Training & Knowledge Sharing

• Identify training needs and contribute to the development of learning programmes, incorporating new technologies and/or products.

• Assist end users in developing research skills and strategies.

Collection Management & Systems

• Develop and maintain processes using infrastructure tools (Library Management System, Intranet) to support workflow efficiency.

• Liaise with external suppliers to resolve technical, content, or access issues.

Additional Duties

• Represent Research at meetings and support firm initiatives in innovation, technology, and corporate responsibility.

• Be an active, collaborative member of the Research team, supporting projects as required.

Key Performance Indicators

• Demonstrated leadership and effective support for the Senior Research Manager in implementing strategies and managing team performance.

Qualifications, skills and experience

Team

Knowledge and ResearchFull time

Location

London

Contract type

Permanent Contract

Diversity & Inclusion

We are committed to attracting people from all backgrounds and creating a respectful and inclusive culture where everyone thrives. We see this as essential to our success, including our ability to innovate and achieve sustained high performance. This is a key part of our Values—Human, Bold, and Outstanding.