Paralegal Manager

Overview

Mayer Brown is an international law firm positioned to represent the world’s major corporations, funds, and financial institutions in their most important and complex transactions and disputes. We are recognized by our clients as strategic partners with deep commercial instincts and a commitment to creatively anticipating their needs and delivering excellence in everything we do.

We are a collegial, collaborative, and diverse firm where highly motivated individuals with an unwavering commitment to excellence receive the opportunity, support, and development they need to grow, thrive, and realize their greatest potential all while supporting the Firm’s client service principles of excellence, strategic partnership, commercial instinct, integrated strengths, innovation, and collaboration across our international firm.

If you enjoy working with team members whose defining characteristics are exceptional client service, initiative, professionalism, responsiveness, and adaptability, you may be the person we are seeking to join our Paralegal department in our Washington, D.C. office as an Paralegal Manager.

Supervise direct and indirect reports, manage the operation of the Paralegal Department, and work with the US Paralegal Manager and Director of Administration to formulate policies and procedures which will enhance the department.

Responsibilities

Essential Functions: 

• Responsible for the direct supervision and management of the Paralegal Department. Staff positions include all Paralegals, Document Clerks, Project Assistants, temporary paralegal staff
• Ensure all members of the team adhere to Firm policies and procedures
• Responsible for resolving employee relations matters as necessary (working with Human Resources Department as necessary)
• Responsible for the recruitment of all staff positions in conjunction with US Paralegal Manager and Human Resources
• Maintain optimal staffing levels and anticipate long-range planning on paralegal staffing; Prepare business case assessments when expanding head count
• Coordinate all work assignments for staff and consult with attorneys to ensure all assignments are managed successfully; maintain acceptable levels of performance for all assignments
• Oversee paralegal development through training and goal setting and manage staff performance; prepare and deliver performance evaluations
• Plan and present in-house training programs and provide continuous coaching and feedback to all assigned staff
• Ensure collaboration with attorney population and work with the team to achieve better utilization and realization of paralegals; coordinate with practice areas to promote teamwork and effective use of paralegals; monitor progress of changes in utilization; develop, propose and implement new paralegal policies as needed to enhance the productivity of the team
• Prepare statistical reports including periodic employee status reports, work assignment statistics and profitability analyses and any necessary budgets
• Identify new areas in which paralegals can provide service to attorneys, clients and the Firm
• Maintain up to date knowledge of all relevant technology as it would benefit the team and the Firm and present proposals as necessary
• Coordinate multi-office case management with US Paralegal Manager and regional Paralegal Managers; actively manage national list serves in order to provide seamless support to attorneys and case teams nationwide
• Review paralegal utilization performance monthly and report issues to US Paralegal Manager and Director of Administration
• Regularly communicate utilization data points, on a one-on-one basis, with paralegal team along with suggestions for improvement
• Act as a resource for partners, associates, clients and support staff and provide matter specific guidance and knowledge on relevant regulations and procedures and deliver the information to the team and the attorneys as necessary
• Work with outside vendors to ensure highest quality service and maximize efficiency in billing and accounting
• Manage headcount, budget, and expenses

Qualifications

Education/Training/Certifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field. Paralegal Certificate a plus. An equivalent combination of education and/or experience may be considered in lieu of the degree when the experience has been directly related to the functions of the job

Professional Experience:

• Minimum 10 years paralegal experience required. Minimum 5 years paralegal supervisor/manager experience required. Experience in law firm required

Technical Skills: 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products, including PowerPoint and Excel
• Working knowledge of document management software, Lexis, Westlaw, Edgar, PACER, electronic discovery management database/tools and corporate service provider platforms

Performance Traits:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, able to communicate effectively and in a professional manner with all levels of the Firm and outside vendors
• Ability to work in a diverse team environment and effectively support the demanding needs of the Firm
• Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines with shifting priorities
• Must be a self-starter with a high level of initiative
• Strong customer service skills, able to anticipate needs and exercise independent judgment
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills and the ability to handle multiple projects
• Maintains confidentiality and exercises discretion
• Exercises solid strategic thinking and problem-solving skills

Management Accountabilities:

• Manages processes for direct reports in regards to performance appraisals, annual compensation, goal setting and performance counselling
• Demonstrated leadership and supervisory experience
• Operational budget analysis and recommendations
• Conducts analysis of staffing levels and participation in the recruitment process
• Able to determine and implement change processes to improve workflow efficiencies
• Process and service-oriented with strong leadership and project management skills
• Able to set priorities and delegate in an efficient manner

The typical Washington, D.C. pay scale for this position is between $168,300 and $193,500, although the actual wage or salary could be lower or higher if the candidate’s education, experience, skills and internal pay alignment are different from those specified. 

The above is a general description of the essential duties associated with this position and does not represent an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all duties.

The Firm may modify and amend this job description at any time at its sole discretion. Nothing herein creates a contract of employment or otherwise modifies the at-will nature of employment.

We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits, including medical/dental/vision/life/and AD&D insurance, 401 (k) savings plan, back-up childcare and eldercare, generous paid time off (PTO), as well as opportunities for professional development and growth.

Thank you for your interest in Mayer Brown. We are committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities and disabled veterans. To request a reasonable accommodation related to the application process and/or job interview, please email uslateralrecruiting@mayerbrown.com. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

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Salary : $168,300 - $193,500