Manager, Paralegal Services

We invite you to review our current business services professionals openings to learn about the opportunities available across the firm.

About Us

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP has forged a reputation as one of the most prestigious law firms in the world. Relying on innovation, intellect, teamwork and tenacity, our lawyers deliver the highest quality advice and novel solutions to our clients’ legal issues. We are known for handling the most complex transactions, litigation/controversy issues, and regulatory matters, as well as for the strong partnerships we build with clients and each other. Our attorneys, who reflect a broad range of experiences and perspectives, work together seamlessly across 50-plus practices and 21 offices in the world’s major financial centers. 

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Manager, Paralegal Services to join our Firm. This position will be based in our Washington, D.C. office. The Manager, Paralegal Services will manage all aspects of the Paralegal Services team including department administration, recruiting, staff oversight, training and employee development, performance management, and general process improvement in the DC office.  Please note that the Firm will not sponsor applicants for work visas for this position.

• Manages the daily operations of the Paralegal Services department including department projects, day-to-day operations and long-range plans.

• Monitors time, attendance, overtime, expense reports, and absence requests to ensure accuracy and compliance with Firm policies.

• Coordinates daily workflow, distributes assignments, oversees workloads, and monitors utilization.

• Manages and addresses staffing requests efficiently including last-minute and off-hour requests, coordinating with other offices as needed.

• Consults with attorneys to ensure proper daily and long-term work flow and assignments of attorney and paralegal teams.

• Ensures accurate and timely responses to requests for departmental services.

• Provides ongoing coaching and guidance to paralegals to implement continuous quality improvements and/or enhancements to department operating efficiency.

• Meets individually with paralegals on a regular basis to discuss workload and obtain feedback.

• Leads the recruitment, interviewing, and selection process for entry-level legal practice assistants annually, as well as for lateral paralegals as needed, ensuring the highest standards of talent acquisition.

• Partners with other members of the Paralegal Services management team to design, coordinate, and deliver training programs tailored to the experience and development needs of the paralegal business services professionals.

• Oversees administration of mentor program.

• Ensures current knowledge of Firm policies and practices, current knowledge of industry trends and continued professional development for business services professionals.

• Engages in strategic (i.e., long-range) planning by developing departmental goals and supporting objectives for assigned department.

• Serves as active member of management by recommending new or revised policies, procedures and/or practices that promote efficiency, effectiveness, excellent customer services and excellent management and employee relations. Suggests new programs and/or activities, which reflect best practices or current trends in legal administration.

• Forecasts financial and budget requirements for the department, prepares related reports, and monitors the budget.

• Effectively utilizes the Firm's performance management process to communicate performance expectations, monitor performance, coach employees, and manage unsatisfactory performance.

• Oversees employees' work performance and provides guidance in the resolution of problems.

• Initiates disciplinary procedures in collaboration with the Human Resources Department.

• Recommends guidelines and practices to promote efficiency, effectiveness, excellent customer service and improved employee relations in alignment with the Firm's Core Values.

• Develops and communicates departmental guidelines and procedures.

• Regular and reliable physical presence.

• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Current knowledge of law firm administration and paralegal best practices, trends and techniques

• Knowledge of relevant Firm computer software programs (e.g., Outlook, Word, Excel), with the ability to learn new software and operating systems

• Knowledge and implementation of the annual budget process

• Demonstrated experience with leading and supervising others. Effectively employs coaching and problem solving techniques

• Ability to organize and prioritize work and delegate effectively

• Ability to handle sensitive matters and maintain confidentiality 

• Excellent analytical, organizational, and planning skills

• Ability to administer Firm policies and procedures

• Ability to handle multiple projects and shifting priorities

• Ability to use discretion and exercise independent and sound judgment.

• Ability to work well in a demanding and fast-paced environment

• Ability to work well independently as well as effectively within a team

• Flexibility to travel

• Flexibility to adjust hours and work the hours necessary to meet operating and business needs

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree

• Minimum of eight years of paralegal administration or related experience including three years of supervisory experience. Experience should include demonstrated success in leading others, problem solving, resolving conflicts and developing effective work relationships with employees at all levels.

Culture & Life at Skadden
What makes Skadden special is our people and the culture, community and spirit of collaboration we have created. We believe in teamwork and inspiring each other to be our best in an atmosphere that promotes professionalism and excellence in all that we do. We know that inclusion and drawing on the strength of a wide spectrum of talent only make us better and is vital to the firm's success. Our goal is for everyone at the firm to enjoy a challenging career with opportunities for development and growth and to support the well-being of our attorneys and business services professionals.

Benefits

The overall well-being of our team is important to us.  We offer generous benefits to help you achieve wellness in all areas of your life. 

• Competitive salaries and year-end discretionary bonuses.

• Comprehensive health care (medical, dental, vision), savings plan/401(k) and voluntary benefits.

• Generous paid time off.

• Paid leave options, including parental.

• In-classroom, remote, and on-demand learning and professional development opportunities.

• Robust well-being classes and programs.

• Opportunities to give back and make an impact in local communities.

For further details, please visit:  https://www.skadden.com/careers/staff/employee-benefits

Skadden is an Equal Opportunity Employer (Disability/Vet/other protected categories). For more information, please visit Skadden.com/careers.

The starting base salary for this position is expected to be within the range listed under Salary Details.  Actual salary will be determined based on skills, experience (to the extent relevant) and other-job related factors, consistent with applicable law.

Salary Details

EEO Statement

Skadden is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  It does not discriminate against applicants or employees based on any legally impermissible factor including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual and reproductive health decisions, disability, any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, or stalking.

Applicants who require an accommodation during the application process should contact Lara Bell at (212) 735-2794.

Skadden Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Skadden Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Applicants Have Rights Under Federal Employment Law

Applicants Have Rights Under Federal Employment Law

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