The ActOne Group, in partnership with our client who has been a cornerstone of the legal community for decades, is seeking to hire a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join their team. As they embark on the next chapter of their journey, they are excited to introduce a new leadership role within their organization.

This individual will serve as a key strategic partner to their managing partner, driving operational excellence, guiding firm-wide initiatives, and championing a culture of continuous improvement. The COO will oversee all day-to-day administrative and management functions of the firm. The ideal candidate will possess a strong business acumen, human resources skills and proven management ability. The COO will be given considerable authority and autonomy to work with the managing partner to achieve firm goals and objectives, including improved operating efficiencies and enhanced profitability.

The COO will play a critical role in redefining and optimizing their HR, IT and general management processes, addressing the unique challenges and opportunities inherent in a dynamic and evolving legal landsape.

Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic guidance and leadership to managing partner on operational matters, leveraging deep expertise in law firm management.
• Oversee all aspects of HR management, including recruitment, onboarding, benefits administration, performance evaluations and departures, ensuring alignment with our firm's values and objectives.
• Assist in recruiting, training, and evaluating lawyers.
• Take ownership of office operations, ensuring seamless day-to-day functioning and optimizing processes to enhance efficiency and productivity.
• Build and maintain office culture and morale.
• Work with the managing partner and practice group leaders on attorney and staff team changes.
• Manage utilization of office space, including office layout planning and office moves.
• Lead IT management efforts, collaborating with external providers to implement innovative solutions and technology-driven initiatives.
• Drive strategic projects and initiatives in partnership with firm leaders, facilitating cross-functional collaboration and alignment.
• Oversee additional roles such as IT personnel and legal support staff, fostering a cohesive and high-performing team environment.
• Contribute to firm marketing and business development efforts, leveraging expertise in project-based marketing strategies to enhance our firm's visibility and market positioning.
• Identify and implement opportunities for process and office management improvements.
• Plan office events throughout the year to foster office morale and integration, including holiday parties, quarterly social gatherings, and staff appreciation events.
• Work with the Chief Financial Officer to manage the firm budget.
• Create agenda for, attend and maintain minutes for partners meetings.
• Ensure implementation of decisions made by the managing partner.
• Drive the strategic and tactical planning process, and work with the managing partner, to develop and operate the firm for the future.

Required Skills:

• Bachelor's degree (minimum).
• 10 years of relevant experience in management and administration in a professional service law firm environment.
• Strong understanding of HR best practices and proven experience in HR management within a legal setting.
• Demonstrated leadership and management skills, with a track record of driving results and fostering a positive organizational culture.
• Ability to organize and prioritize numerous tasks and complete them under time restraints.
• Interpersonal skills necessary to communicate with employees at all levels with courtesy and tact.
• Strong analytical skills.

Desired Skills:

• Certifications such as CLM or HR-related certifications preferred, demonstrating a commitment to ongoing professional development.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies, with a focus on driving successful project outcomes and managing complex initiatives.
• Experience in IT oversight and management, with a demonstrated ability to leverage technology to enhance operational efficiency.
• Marketing skills with a focus on project-based initiatives, contributing to our firm's growth and market expansion efforts.
• Familiarity with financial principles, though direct accounting skills are not required.

Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package, reflective of the candidate's experience and qualifications.
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates