Managing Director (Practice Group Director) – San Francisco or Palo Alto
Firm Description:
Our client is one of the world’s largest law firms, with over 4,000 attorneys across more than 40 countries. Known for its expansive global reach and full-service capabilities, the firm advises leading corporations, financial institutions, and governments on complex legal and business matters. Core practice areas include corporate and finance, litigation, intellectual property, real estate, tax, and regulatory affairs. The firm is recognized for its innovative approach, collaborative culture, and commitment to sustainability, diversity, and pro bono service.
Position Description:
Managing Director – Practice Group Director (Palo Alto or San Francisco)
Our client is seeking a Managing Director to partner with firm leadership in scaling a high-growth practice group in Silicon Valley (Palo Alto or San Francisco). This role is designed for a practice leader who has not only executed at a high level, but also helped shape, design, and implement strategic initiatives within complex Big Law environments.
The Managing Director will serve as a key strategic and operational leader, working closely with partners to strengthen client relationships, drive financial performance, and implement best-in-class practice management infrastructure.
Strategic Leadership & Practice Development
- Partner with firm leadership to shape and execute the strategic direction of the practice group, ensuring alignment with broader firm objectives
- Bring a proven track record of contributing to strategy development, including involvement in ideation, structuring, and execution of practice-level initiatives (e.g., growth plans, client expansion strategies, operational transformation)
- Translate high-level strategy into actionable operating plans, driving accountability across partners and business functions
- Identify market trends, competitive dynamics, and growth opportunities to inform forward-looking business decisions
- Track and report progress against strategic initiatives, adjusting approaches as needed to optimize outcomes
Matter & Financial Management
- Oversee pitches, proposals, matter opening, budgeting, and adherence to client guidelines
- Monitor financial performance, including WIP, billing, collections, and profitability metrics
- Partner with billing teams to ensure timely, accurate invoicing aligned with client requirements
- Collaborate with collections teams to track payments and resolve issues efficiently
- Analyze and present key financial KPIs, identifying both risks and opportunities for improvement
Operational Leadership
- Serve as a primary liaison between partners and internal teams, including finance, billing, marketing, and administrative support
- Lead a cross-functional team to deliver exceptional client service and operational execution
- Implement best practices related to matter management, workflow efficiency, and resource allocation
- Coordinate with international stakeholders where applicable
Dedicated Administrative Support:
- This role is fully supported by dedicated administrative resources, ensuring the Managing Director can operate at a strategic and leadership level while delegating core administrative and coordination tasks effectively.
Client Service & Relationship Management
- Strengthen and maintain key client relationships through consistent service delivery and operational excellence
- Ensure compliance with client outside counsel guidelines and reporting requirements
- Support client-facing administrative functions such as reporting, budgeting, and performance tracking
- Partner with pricing and legal project management teams to develop alternative fee arrangements and matter plans
Process Improvement & Technology
- Identify and implement opportunities to streamline processes and enhance operational efficiency
- Leverage technology platforms for tracking, reporting, and collaboration
- Train and mentor team members on systems, tools, and best practices
Qualifications
Required Experience
- 10+ years of experience, preferably in legal or law firm practice management within a Big Law environment
- Demonstrated experience contributing to and executing strategic initiatives at the practice or firm level, not solely operational execution
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Legal Studies, or a related field required
- JD or MBA is a plus
Skills & Competencies
- Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to present complex strategic and operational concepts to senior stakeholders
- Strong leadership capabilities, including problem-solving, planning, negotiation, and decision-making
- Proven ability to operate both strategically and tactically across diverse teams
- High level of discretion, professionalism, and client service orientation
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Willingness to travel as needed
Location
This role is based in Northern California with a hybrid schedule, with flexibility to work from either a Silicon Valley (Palo Alto) or San Francisco office.
Compensation & Benefits
The anticipated salary range for this role is approximately $300,000 to $313,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and qualifications. A comprehensive benefits package is also offered, including medical, dental, vision, and retirement plans.
Meet Your Recruiter
Samir Metovic
Director of Legal Recruiting
