This exempt position is responsible for managing all aspects of firm-wide, as well as department- and section-specific attorney career development, training and programming. This position reports to the Director of Attorney Development and works closely with Department Administrative Partners, Section Chairs, Practice Group Leaders and other lawyers engaged in training efforts, including various firm-wide committees and the heads of the other administrative departments.
Essential Duties- Develop and manage firm-wide in-house legal training programs and presentations, including Milestone Development Programs. Assist as necessary with planning, management, and logistics of section-specific training.
- Work with partners in each practice area to develop strategic plans for training, curriculum development, and sequencing, including all training for entry-level associates, as well as onboarding and training programs for lateral hires, including patent agents, scientific advisors and landmen.
- Manage the design and/or delivery of in-house and third-party legal training and professional development programs.
- Lead and facilitate firmwide mentoring and leadership development programs for attorneys at all levels, ensuring effective program delivery, participant engagement, and alignment with attorney development objectives.
- Manage the Attorney Development budget, monitoring expenses, forecasting costs, and ensuring effective allocation of resources across the department.
- Facilitate attorney staffing and work allocation efforts, aligning attorney skills, experience, and development goals with firm and client needs.
- Partner with the Office of General Counsel and Chief Talent Officer on attorney-related employment, compliance, and risk management matters.
- Oversee all aspects of the mid-year and year-end attorney evaluation cycles, including process design and implementation, reviewer and evaluatee communications, feedback solicitation and collection, deadline management, reporting, and collaboration with department, and section leadership to facilitate effective talent assessment and development discussions.
- Facilitate attorney onboarding, training, and performance reviews for international offices, ensuring compliance with local requirements, firm policies, and established timelines.
- Assist the Attorney Development Director with talent development and performance issues and processes, including the annual associate review cycles to promote growth, development, promotion, and retention of associates.
Other Duties- Serve as a resource to attorneys and develop and identify appropriate professional development opportunities.
- Work cross-functionally with other teams and departments.
- Other duties as assigned.
Reporting RelationshipManager of Attorney Development reports directly to the Director of Attorney Development and manages directly one or more junior team members.
QualificationsKnowledge/Experience:- At least 5 years of experience in professional development, performance management, or practice support, preferably at a peer law firm with increasing levels of responsibility preferred.
- Established proficiency in the use of computer programs including Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and generative AI, including Copilot and Harvey. Knowledge of electronic databases such as Micron and viDesktop is a plus.
- Knowledge of licensing and compliance requirements for trainees and solicitors in the United Kingdom is preferred but not required.
- Exceptional verbal and written communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills. Ability to work independently and flexibly, managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Ability to assimilate information quickly to grasp larger concepts as well as details. Energetic orientation; be driven to and energized by accomplishment.
- Ability to handle confidential matters with attention to detail.
- Ability to anticipate problems and issues and exercise independent judgment in seeking a resolution.
- Experience successfully managing teams and having direct reports is a plus.
- Ability to effectively interface with attorneys, business professionals and outside vendors; confidence in dealing with and proven ability to gain the confidence/trust of others.
- Ability to build and maintain strong professional relationships with attorneys, developing an in-depth understanding of personal aspirations, experiences, strengths, development needs, exercising discretion in all dealings.
- Flexibility to travel as needed.
EducationBachelor's degree and at least 5 years of experience in professional development or practice support, preferably at a peer law firm. J.D. strongly preferred; coaching certification and experience practicing law a plus.
