Director of Operations (Law Firm)

SEEKING AN EXPERIENCED DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS FOR A HIGH-STAKES CRIMINAL DEFENSE FIRM

We are seeking a seasoned Director of Operations (also known as a Firm Administrator or Law Firm COO) to lead the day-to-day operations of our fast-growing criminal defense firm. This is a critical executive-level role designed for someone who thrives in managing high-performing teams, handling operational complexities, and driving efficiency in a results-oriented environment. If you are passionate about streamlining law firm operations and allowing the owner to focus solely on legal strategy, this opportunity is for you.

Why This Role is Unique:

This position offers the chance to manage the operational backbone of a firm handling serious felony cases, including murder and sexual assault, and high volume misdemeanors. The right candidate will be instrumental in ensuring smooth operations, overseeing HR, managing payroll, analyzing attorney performance, and serving as the primary point of contact for staff when the owner is unavailable. Your leadership will directly impact the firm’s growth, efficiency, and reputation.

ABOUT THE POSITION

The Director of Operations will work closely with the Owner to implement firm-wide strategies, manage personnel, and refine systems that promote profitability and operational excellence. This role requires a hands-on leader who will oversee HR, payroll, vendor management, and financial analysis. Additionally, you will play a key role in ensuring that attorneys meet performance metrics by analyzing reports and identifying areas of improvement.

In this position, you will not only supervise teams but will be the go-to person for resolving client concerns, managing internal conflicts, and ensuring the office runs smoothly in the owner’s absence. This is a perfect opportunity for a candidate who is highly analytical, organized, and motivated to create a seamless operational environment in a high-stakes legal practice.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and operational workflows.
• Manage daily operations including HR, payroll, and employee performance.
• Analyze key financial reports to assess attorney efficiency, revenue generation, and profitability.
• Handle client complaints and operational “fires” to ensure seamless case progression.
• Serve as the primary point of leadership, ensuring that staff report to you when the owner is not present.
• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and performance reviews for firm personnel.
• Collaborate with the Owner to develop business plans, budgets, and strategic initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards across the firm.
• Manage vendor relationships and oversee facility operations.
• Create accountability through KPIs, performance metrics, and project management.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Demonstrated success in managing the operations of a law firm or professional services business.
• Experience leading teams of 20+ employees and driving organizational efficiency.
• Strong HR background, including recruitment, onboarding, and payroll management.
• Ability to analyze P&L statements, financial reports, and operational KPIs.
• Proven ability to manage conflicts, implement solutions, and drive change.
• Exceptional communication and leadership skills.
• Adept at project management, with the ability to ensure cases and client matters are handled appropriately and efficiently.
• Experience with facilities, vendor management, and security protocols.
• A firm grasp of business operations, from finance to marketing to technology.

WHO YOU ARE:

• A proactive leader who can take initiative and own the operational health of the firm.
• Comfortable with high-level decision-making and holding teams accountable.
• Able to balance compassion with candor in employee interactions.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Driven by data, performance metrics, and a desire to optimize profitability.
• Eager to build trust with the firm’s leadership while managing “up” to ensure firm goals are achieved.