Administrative Manager, Practice Support

Morrison & Foerster, LLP • San Francisco, CA

63d

About The Position

The Administrative Manager, Practice Support serves as a key leader in overseeing the operations and performance of the firm’s practice support professionals. Working closely with the Director of Administration, this role manages staffing, workflow, and administrative processes to ensure efficiency, consistency, and superior client service. The position focuses on developing a high-performing team, advancing best practices in operational management, and aligning support functions with the firm’s strategic objectives and evolving business needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and at least five years of managerial or supervisory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proven leadership and team management skills with a focus on delivering exceptional client service.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities to work effectively and diplomatically across all levels of the organization.
• Skilled at building consensus, anticipating challenges, and developing strategic, practical solutions.
• Ability to assess internal client needs and independently design and implement responsive initiatives.
• Highly organized and capable of managing multiple priorities and complex projects with minimal supervision.
• Strong sense of accountability and ownership, with proactive problem-solving and follow-through.
• Excellent attention to detail, adaptability under pressure, and commitment to maintaining professionalism.
• Demonstrated discretion and ability to handle confidential information with integrity.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience in a law firm or professional services environment; experience managing across multiple offices preferred.
• Strong knowledge of current trends and best practices in legal and practice operations.
• Demonstrated ability to leverage technology to enhance teamwork, client service, and operational efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Director of Administration, timekeepers, practice groups, and functional managers to provide leadership and direction for the practice operations team.
• Ensure the department is structured and staffed to meet business and client service objectives.
• Establish and align short- and long-term goals, focusing on staffing, skill development, and service delivery.
• Achieve operational efficiency and cost objectives through forecasting, planning, and innovation.
• Partner with peer managers within and outside the Firm to exchange ideas and implement best practices.
• Lead and develop practice operations professionals in collaboration with timekeepers and the Director of Administration.
• Set and communicate performance standards aligned with business needs.
• Manage performance evaluations and ongoing feedback to promote growth and accountability.
• Address performance and employee relations matters in partnership with the Human Resources Business Partner (HRBP).
• Recommend compensation adjustments consistent with Firm policies and maintain accurate documentation of all counseling and performance actions.
• Oversee daily workflow assignments and ensure seamless support across practice groups.
• Manage coverage, time-off approvals, temporary staffing, and overtime while maintaining cost efficiency.
• Coordinate operational support for visiting attorneys and clients as needed.
• Ensure compliance with Firm policies, including timekeeping, attendance, and FLSA procedures.
• Approve PTO, review timecards, and monitor expenses such as overtime, temporary staffing, and training.
• Ensure administrative procedures, including Workday data entry, are completed accurately and in a timely manner.
• Partner with HR and Recruiting to develop job postings, interview candidates, and support selection and onboarding.
• Lead orientation and training for new practice operations professionals, and assist with onboarding for attorneys and summer associates.
• Ensure administrative procedures, such as Workday data entry, are completed accurately and on time.
• Support ongoing professional development through goal setting, training plans, and education reimbursement.
• Collaborate with Technology Services to deliver effective and responsive technology training.
• Evaluate and respond to evolving client and practice needs with proactive plans and improvements.
• Align departmental goals with Firm objectives, emphasizing client service, training, and process consistency.
• Partner with Technology and administrative teams to enhance coordination and efficiency.
• Participate in Firm and office committees to share insights and promote best practices across locations.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and development to build a high-performing, client-focused team.
• Foster open communication, fairness, and adherence to Firm policies.
• Partner with HR to address employee relations and performance concerns promptly.
• Set and communicate a clear team vision and lead meetings to share updates and reinforce priorities.
• Stay current with developments in legal operations and relevant technologies.
• Leverage technology to enhance efficiency, collaboration, and service delivery.
• Participate in initiatives that advance the value of practice operations within the Firm.
• Model the Firm’s Client Service Principles in leadership and daily interactions.
• Safeguard confidential information in compliance with the Firm’s Information Handling Policy.
• Support adherence to the Firm’s General Safety Practices and departmental safety protocols.

Benefits

• MoFo offers a comprehensive benefits package starting on your first day.
• A variety of options for medical, dental, vision, life and disability coverage to meet the needs of you and your family.
• Industry-leading parental leave and family benefits including adoption and fertility treatment options and backup child and elder care.
• Global wellness program, including free access to Talkspace and Calm apps.
• Annual community service day to make an impact on your community and a birthday holiday just for fun.
• Education reimbursement annually.
• Dedicated Talent Development team.
• Competitive annual profit-sharing contribution.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees