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Chief Operating Officer (Law Firm)

Executive Leadership Opportunity

About Our Client:
Our client, a well-established law firm with its headquarters located in downtown Pittsburgh, is in search of an experienced and dynamic Chief Operating Officer (COO) to assume responsibility for the firm's management and administrative operations. With a long history of providing exceptional legal services and a growing presence through additional office locations, our client presents a unique opportunity for an innovative executive to contribute significantly to shaping the firm's future.

This executive-level role is suited for a seasoned professional with a minimum of five years' experience in law firm administration, outstanding business acumen, and a demonstrated ability to lead high-performing teams. The ideal candidate will prioritize the success of the firm and exhibit a strong commitment to operational excellence and strategic growth.

Position Overview:
The COO will possess considerable authority and autonomy to accomplish organizational objectives by focusing on enhancing operational efficiencies and profitability. Serving as a key strategic advisor and operational leader, the COO will report directly to the executive committee and shareholders. This position becomes available as the current COO, an esteemed advisor with almost a decade of tenure, plans to retire in mid-2025, offering a rare chance for a proficient executive to step into this critical role.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Leadership

• Oversee financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, general ledger accounting, billing, collections, and cash flow management.

• Manage banking relationships, tax planning and reporting, trust accounting, payroll, insurance programs, and retirement plans.

2. Human Resources Management

• Lead the recruitment, training, management, and evaluation of all non-legal administrative and support personnel.

• Administer compensation structures, benefits programs, personnel data systems, and resource allocation.

3. Technology and Information Systems

• Oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of the firm's IT systems, which include office automation, telecommunications, legal practice systems, and litigation support.

• Conduct systems analysis, operational audits, and cost/benefit evaluations to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.

4. Facilities Management

• Assume responsibility for all aspects of facilities management, including space planning, lease negotiations, inventory control, and disaster recovery strategies.

• Manage equipment acquisition, vendor relationships, and facility services across multiple office locations.

5. Strategic Operations and Leadership

• Drive strategic and tactical planning processes, risk management initiatives, and organizational development efforts.

• Participate as the corporate secretary in all shareholder and executive committee meetings.

• Lead quality control, firm planning, and general management functions to support long-term growth and sustainability.

6. Practice Management

• Collaborate with firm leadership on lawyer recruitment, training, and development.

• Oversee legal work product quality control, ensuring adherence to professional standards and best practices.

7. Marketing and Business Development

• Support business development initiatives through client profitability analysis, marketing strategies, public relations, and brand enhancement.

• Strengthen client relationships and enhance the firm's visibility within target markets.

Candidate Profile:

• A minimum of five years' experience in executive-level law firm administration.

• Demonstrated expertise in financial management and human resources; MBA and/or CPA preferred.

• Exceptional leadership, organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Proven problem-solving abilities and a collaborative, team-oriented approach.

• Commitment to cultivating a "firm first" culture and thriving in a fast-paced, professional environment.

Why Join Our Client?

This presents a unique opportunity to join a distinguished law firm at a pivotal moment in its growth trajectory. The successful candidate will have the freedom to make a lasting impact, driving operational excellence and strategic initiatives that will shape the firm's future. Our client offers a professional, collaborative environment where top executive talent can flourish and achieve significant results.