Professional Development External Programs Coordinator

At Wilson Elser, we are redefining what it means to work at a national law firm. With more than 1,400 attorneys across 46 offices nationwide, we are recognized among the top 100 law firms by The American Lawyer and ranked #36 in the National Law Journal’s survey of the nation’s largest law firms.

Our continued success is built on a culture of collaboration, innovation, client service, and mutual respect. We are committed to fostering an environment where employees are empowered to grow their careers, contribute meaningfully, and thrive professionally.

The Professional Development External Programs Coordinator is a key member of the firm’s Learning and Development team, responsible for managing client-facing Continuing Legal Education (CLE) and Continuing Education (CE) accreditation programs for attorneys, adjusters, and other professionals.  SHRM credit may also be sought and arranged for attendees of these external programs on an ad hoc basis.  This role ensures compliance with jurisdictional regulations, supports the planning and execution of client-facing educational programs, and assists attorneys with their ongoing professional development and accreditation needs.

The External Programs Coordinator will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including Marketing, Professional Development, and external vendors, while serving as a central resource for external CLE and CE compliance, reporting, and program administration. This position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

This position offers flexibility to work remotely from anywhere or in a hybrid or onsite capacity from any of our offices.

Key Responsibilities:

• Client-Facing Program Coordination: Along with contacts from the firm’s Marketing team, coordinate the planning, administration, and execution of client-facing CLE and CE programs.
• Program Communications and Delivery: Serve as a primary point of contact for external CLE and CE programs, managing program logistics, accreditation coordination, communications, and virtual or in-person program support.
• CLE and CE Accreditation Management: Prepare, submit, and manage CLE and CE accreditation applications across multiple jurisdictions, ensuring full compliance with applicable regulations, reporting requirements, and deadlines.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Marketing, and other internal stakeholders to execute educational programming that aligns with firm objectives and client needs.
• Vendor and Partner Relations: Build and maintain relationships with CLE, CE, and learning vendors to support current and future educational initiatives and enhance the firm’s professional development offerings.
• Attorney Support with PLI; PLI Roster Maintenance and New Hire Support Maintain and update the firm’s Practicing Law Institute (PLI) membership roster, including tracking attorney onboarding and departures to ensure accurate records and continued compliance. Orient and support new and existing attorneys with the effective use of the PLI platform and other CLE resources to support compliance tracking and reporting requirements.
• CLE Database and MCLE Board Oversight: As needed, assist with the management and maintenance of the firm’s CLE database and MCLE reporting systems and filings, ensuring accurate tracking, reporting, and record retention.
• Attendance Tracking and Compliance Monitoring: Monitor attendance records and participation for client training sessions and accredited programs, ensuring proper documentation and compliance with jurisdictional standards.
• Regulatory Guidance and Inquiry Response: Respond to CLE and CE-related inquiries from attorneys and internal stakeholders, providing guidance on state-specific accreditation and compliance requirements as needed.
• Program Audits and File Maintenance: Audit and maintain CLE and CE program files to ensure completeness, accuracy, and compliance with both firm policies and jurisdictional guidelines.

Key Job Requirements and Qualifications:

• 2+ years’ experience in a professional services environment, law firm experience preferred
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent required, ideally in HR or related field.
• Demonstrate strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to effectively prioritize competing responsibilities and deadlines
• Strong attention to detail and refined, polished written work product
• Exercise autonomy as needed
• Use sound independent judgment in decision-making
• Suggest innovations and improvements to elevate learning programs and enhance client service
• Exhibit well-developed interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with team, peers, external clients, and cross-functional departments
• Proficiency in MS Office, and experience with Workday and CE Manager preferred. 

Why Should You Apply? 

• Benefits: Outstanding benefits package, including 401k match and generous PTO plan
• Career Growth: Ample opportunities for professional development and advancement
• Employee Perks: Access to corporate discount plans and other benefits

Wilson Elser welcomes submissions of candidates for our open positions exclusively from recruitment agencies with an active, signed fee agreement who have been granted access to a position through our dedicated Recruitment Agency Portal. We are unable to consider submissions from recruitment agencies without a current (dated as of 7/1/2024) agreement in place. We appreciate your understanding. For collaboration inquiries or to establish an agreement, please contact us at talentacquisition@wilsonelser.com.

Wilson Elser is committed to a collegial work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity.  It is the Firm's policy that employment will be based on merit, qualifications, and competence. Further, employment decisions will be made without regard to an applicants race, color, age, sex, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity, physical or mental disability, status as a victim of domestic violence, sex offenses, or stalking, past or present service in the uniformed services or application or obligation to serve in the uniformed services, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

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