Director of Legal Operations

Are you a strategic leader with a knack for optimizing operations within a dynamic corporate environment?

Do you possess the skills to integrate innovative practices within traditional operations, thereby enhancing overall efficiency and service delivery?

Can you proactively identify and implement solutions that not only address present challenges but also pave the way for future organizational advancements?

Are you an inspiring leader capable of fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation within a corporate team?

Final question: When faced with a challenge, do you get excited or run away?

 

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Join Sutton Law Firm, a boutique law practice based in historic Bartow, FL, just across from the Polk County Courthouse. Our firm specializes in all areas of family law, appellate practice, and business bankruptcy, while also offering select services in civil litigation and business law, primarily for business owners and commercial clients. With an additional location in St. Petersburg, Sutton Law Firm is proud to offer collaborative law services in family, business, and civil matters.

Led by Debra J. Sutton, a board-certified attorney in both appellate practice and marital and family law, and Matthew J. Kovschak, who brings over 35 years of experience, our firm is dedicated to achieving favorable outcomes in both routine and complex legal cases.

 

Overview:

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Legal Operations to join our growing law firm. This role is critical in supporting the managing attorney by overseeing day-to-day operations, allowing the leadership team to focus on high-priority cases and strategic growth. The Director of Legal Operations will ensure smooth workflow across departments, manage staff performance, and implement strategies to improve efficiency and case management. Additionally, this role will play a key part in improving, solidifying, and expanding the firm's culture, fostering a collaborative and client-focused environment. The ideal candidate will be hands-on, proactive, and capable of leading with both grace and accountability.

Key Responsibilities:

 Operational Leadership:

• Support the managing attorney by taking on day-to-day operational tasks, ensuring that to-do lists and priorities are effectively delegated and executed.
• Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) across all departments, ensuring targets are met.
• Develop and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistency and improvement in workflows.
• Develop and refine service model options (such as hourly and à la carte billing structures) for client cases, creating structured choices to meet varying client needs and preferences.
• Lead daily team huddles to set priorities, review ongoing cases, and foster collaboration.
• Ensure smooth operation across all office locations (Bartow, St Petersburg, and Lakeland).

Case Management Oversight:

• Monitor case progress and ensure timely movement of cases, with a focus on avoiding bottlenecks, especially in the middle phase of cases.
• Work closely with paralegals and junior attorneys to keep cases on track and on time.
• Oversee case milestones and client satisfaction from onboarding through wrap-up.
• Ensure effective communication with clients and serve as a problem-solver for any issues during case progression.

Financial Oversight:

• Conduct financial reviews, manage vendor contracts, and ensure cost-control measures are implemented.
• Provide oversight on resource allocation and budgeting to maximize firm profitability.
• Regularly report on the firm’s financial performance and suggest areas for optimization.
• Focus on increasing case value by analyzing case strategies and ensuring optimal resource allocation.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Manage and mentor paralegals, junior attorneys, and other support staff, helping to develop their skills and ensuring accountability.
• Lead training programs for new hires and ongoing development initiatives for existing staff.
• Create a positive, motivated work culture, acting as a cheerleader to inspire the team to stay focused, productive, and proud of their work.
• Provide constructive feedback and ensure team members have the resources and support needed to succeed.

Client Experience Enhancement:

• Drive initiatives to improve client satisfaction, focusing on ensuring a smooth journey from initial contact to case resolution.
• Act as a liaison between the team and clients to ensure clear communication and satisfaction.
• Ensure the receptionist team provides an exceptional client experience, acting as the "cruise director" for all client interactions.

Technology and Process Improvements:

• Oversee the implementation of case management software (Clio, WealthCounsel) and ensure staff is trained on its use.
• Streamline processes to enhance operational efficiency, including integrating technology solutions such as CRMs and automation tools.
• Supervise the training of staff members in essential tools like Microsoft Word and Excel, ensuring they are proficient and can utilize these programs effectively in daily tasks.
• Ensure all technology and process improvements are fully implemented, tracked, and evaluated for effectiveness.

Project Management & Strategic Growth:

• Oversee special projects, including firm expansion into new practice areas such as estate planning and guardianship.
• Ensure the firm's growth strategy is aligned with operational capabilities.
• Lead initiatives to grow the firm's estate and guardianship practice and selected bankruptcy cases while supporting the firm’s family law focus.

Qualifications:

• Experience: 5+ years in a management or operational leadership role, preferably in a legal or professional services environment.
• Industry Knowledge: Experience in family law is highly preferred; experience with business, bankruptcy, and estate planning and/or guardianship is a plus.
• Leadership: Proven experience leading and managing teams, with a strong focus on coaching, mentoring, and improving team performance.
• Operational Skills: Expertise in developing and implementing KPIs, managing workflows, and ensuring compliance with operational goals.
• Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with law firm management software such as Clio, WealthCounsel, and CRM systems. Proficiency in common productivity tools like Microsoft Word, Excel, and Google Workspace (G Suite), with the ability to implement these systems and train staff effectively.
• Communication: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to lead through example, manage multiple stakeholders, and resolve conflicts effectively.