Managing the firm's key client relationships is the core of this role, providing both internal and external support to improve them. The Managing Director interacts directly with clients to ensure consistent team performance and addresses any billing or collections issues. This role also handles group administrative management, including conflicts, billing, collections, hiring, training, and knowledge content, and supports a senior-level Partner in managing their book of business.
Responsibilities
Ensure compliance with client outside counsel guidelines and reporting requirements
Support client-facing administrative needs, including status reports, budgets, and performance metrics
Partner with the firm’s pricing and legal project management teams to develop and maintain alternative fee arrangements and matter plans
Oversee pitch and proposal activity, matter opening, budgeting, and compliance with client guidelines
Monitor WIP (work-in-progress), billing, collections, and profitability metrics for the partner’s portfolio
Coordinate with billing teams to ensure timely and accurate invoicing aligned with client requirements
Work with collections on tracking payments and allocations
Track and report on key financial KPIs, proactively identifying risks and opportunities
Serve as the primary liaison between the partner and internal business teams (finance, billing, administrative support, marketing, etc.)
Lead and coordinate a multi-disciplinary team to deliver exceptional client service and operational excellence, including International where involved
Implement best practices for matter management, workflow optimization, and resource allocation
Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce administrative burden
Leverage firm technology platforms for matter tracking, reporting, and collaboration
Train and mentor team members on best practices and tools
Be involved in the strategic planning process
Ensure strategic plan outlines actions to achieve Firm performance goals
Monitor plan execution and regularly report on progress against plan to Practice Group Leader and Firm Leadership
Adjust plan to ensure it remains relevant in light of changing market dynamics, economic climate and business trends
Requirements
Superior communication skills coupled with demonstrated ability to present complex information to senior leadership
Ability to be innovative, creative and operate in a proactive manner with a broad range of professionals
Demonstrated leadership skills to include problem solving, planning, negotiating and decision-making for effective management
Millions of jobs, with real people getting hired every day
200,000+
New jobs added daily
7,000,000+
Verified job listings
1,000,000+
Tailored applications submitted
Ability to serve as a strategic advisor
Ability to demonstrate and adhere to confidentiality and to interact with tact and resourcefulness
Proven dedication to assisting the firm in delivering exceptional client service both internally and externally
Willingness to travel as needed
Bachelor's Degree in Legal Studies, Finance, Business Administration, or similar field
10+ years of legal/law firm experience within practice management
Effectively communicate, verbally and in writing, with clients, lawyers, business professionals, and third parties
Produce deliverables, answer phone calls, and reply to correspondence in an efficient and responsive manner
Provide timely, accurate, and quality work product
Successfully meet deadlines, expectations, and perform work duties as required
Foster positive work relationships
Comply with all firm policies and practices
Engage in both physical and sedentary activity, such as (a) working at a computer for extended periods of time, including on-screen reading and typing; (b) participating in digital/virtual conference calls; (c) participating in meetings as needed
Ability to work under pressure and manage competing demands in a fast-paced environment
Perform all other duties, tasks or projects as assigned
Nice to have:
JD
Benefits
Comprehensive package of benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, and 401(k)
Important Details
Locations: Washington, DC; Baltimore; Boston; New York; Northern Virginia; Philadelphia; Short Hills office
Work environment: hybrid work schedule
Application Process
Apply directly online
About the Company
DLA Piper is a firm that values boldness, exceptionalism, collaboration, and support. Its people are the backbone, heart, and soul of the firm, where individuals can engage in meaningful work and grow their careers.
DLA Piper is a global law firm helping our clients achieve their goals wherever we do business.
