Our client is seeking an experienced and strategic Chief Operating Officer (COO) / Professional Legal Administrator to join their leadership team. This executive-level role which combines operational management with leadership insight and needle-moving projects, ensuring smooth and efficient business functions while providing high-level strategic and forward-looking input and directives. This person will work closely with the firm's leadership including its managing partner and office manager overseeing all non-legal operations including human resources, finance, administration, marketing and technology as well as providing management and operations guidance to members of the legal team. The ideal candidate is an adaptable and results-oriented professional who thrives in a dynamic and collaborative environment and is dedicated to the firm's growth and success.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategic Planning

Partner with the firm's Owner, Managing Partner or Executive Counsel to develop and implement the Business Plan, Budget, and Strategic Calendar ensuring alignment with growth, revenue and culture goals
Lead the development of staffing, operational systems, and strategic projects ensuring alignment with firm priorities
Drive annual planning, quarterly reviews and continuous evaluation of the firm's operations
Oversee non-attorney staff management, including coaching, performance evaluations and professional development with direction to Managing Partner or Executive Counsel regarding legal team performance
Schedule and lead leadership meetings, quarterly reviews and performance management sessions

Human Resources Management

Manage recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and performance evaluations for staff, ensuring role clarity and growth opportunities
Develop and enforce firm-wide personnel policies in compliance with legal standards
Oversee human resources operations, maintaining employee records and ensuring compliance with employment laws
Ensure all staff, including attorneys, meet continuing education and certification requirements
Administer compensation plans, benefits, and employee relations in coordination with the Owner and CFO

Business Systems Administration

Lead the development and continuous improvement of business systems related to case intake, billing, financial management, human resources, risk management and marketing
Maintain thorough documentation of business systems, ensuring accessibility and regular audits for efficiency
Implement firm-wide procedures for risk management, data security and compliance
Collaborate with leadership to optimize workflow processes, including case management and financial systems

Financial Oversight

Supervise the firm's financial systems, including time tracking, billing, trust account management, payroll and bookkeeping
Assist the CFO in the development of the annual budget, monitor financial reports and provide analysis to ensure the firm's financial health
Collaborate with the CFO and financial team to address budget variances and implement corrective actions as needed
Manage accounts payable and receivable to ensure proper financial tracking and compliance with firm policies

Marketing & Sales

Supervise marketing and sales teams, ensuring effective execution of campaigns, lead generation, and client acquisition strategies
Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) for lead generation, sales conversions, and client engagement to optimize ROI
Maintain ongoing communication with external vendors and evaluate marketing effectiveness

Key Competencies

Leadership & Communication: Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to lead teams, negotiate and resolve conflicts
Financial Expertise: Comprehensive knowledge of financial management, including budgeting, accounting, and cash flow specific to professional services operations
Human Resources & Compliance: In-depth understanding of HR best practices, employment law, performance management and employee development
Technology & Process Optimization: Proficiency in business systems and technology solutions to improve operational efficiencies
Legal Industry Knowledge: Solid understanding of legal ethics, billing practices, and the operational nuances specific to law firms, including time and billing systems

Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration; MBA is a plus
Significant experience in professional service firm operations with a strong background in overseeing business functions
Expertise in operational management and professional liability issues
Proven experience handling business challenges including compliance, negotiations and performance management
Demonstrated record of success leading people; Formal certifications in HR from HRCI, SHRM or comparable organization a plus
Familiarity with billing, collections, and database administration

Benefits

Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

Commitment to Diversity: Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected.

Reasonable Accommodations:

Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals. We engage in an interactive process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations.

Compensation Information:

For client positions, compensation information is available in the job post. If not provided, it will be shared during the interview process in accordance with applicable laws. When required by law, salary ranges will be included in job postings. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and comparison to current employees in similar roles. Salary ranges may vary based on role and location.

Compliance with Laws: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Workplace Harassment: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients expressly prohibit any form of workplace harassment based on race, skin color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.

E-Verify Participation: Keller Executive Search and/or our clients may participate in E-Verify. Information about E-Verify participation will be provided during the application process where applicable.

Privacy and Pay Equity:

California Residents: For more information about the categories of personal information we collect for recruiting and employment purposes, please review our Privacy Policy at .

Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents: Compensation information is available in the job post or will be provided during the interview process if not initially available.

Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to pay equity and conduct periodic pay equity analyses in accordance with applicable laws.

State-Specific Information:

Rhode Island: We do not request or require salary history from applicants.

Connecticut: We provide wage range information upon request or before discussing compensation.

New Jersey: We do not inquire about salary history unless voluntarily disclosed.

Veteran Status: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients provide equal employment opportunities to veterans and comply with applicable state laws regarding veteran preference in employment. If you are a veteran, please inform us during the application process.

Genetic Information: In accordance with federal and state laws, both Keller Executive Search and our clients do not discriminate based on genetic information. We do not request or require genetic information from applicants or employees, except as permitted by law.

Local Laws: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices in the areas where we operate.

Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.

Keller Executive Search

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