Business Operations Manager - People Legal

Cisco

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The application window is expected to close on: 05/29/2026. Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received. Members of the Legal organization at select locations will generally be expected to follow a hybrid work model, which includes two days of in-office attendance each week, with limited exceptions. Location: RTP, NC. Are you passionate about driving operational excellence and redefining business processes within a multifaceted legal environment? Cisco's People Legal team is seeking a strategic and analytical Business Operations Improvement Lead to spearhead impactful initiatives. This role is crucial for optimizing our employment law functions and ensuring seamless collaboration across Cisco's Legal, People & Communities (Human Resources), and other key stakeholder groups. If you flourish with analyzing complex processes, implementing innovative solutions, and using data to achieve tangible results, this is the opportunity for you.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree with 5+ years of experience in operations management, business operations, or legal operations
Proven track record of optimizing operational processes and workflows that deliver measurable improvements in efficiency, cost, or quality
Demonstrated ability to manage operations independently while building strong cross-functional relationships and driving organizational alignment
Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with the ability to handle sensitive, confidential matters
Experience with budget management, resource allocation, AI integration, and vendor/service provider oversight
Ability to analyze data and summarize findings for leadership audiences

Nice To Haves

Direct experience in legal operations, law department administration, or compliance-focused business operations
Familiarity with employment law workflows, litigation management processes, or regulatory compliance requirements
Track record managing large-scale operational transformation or process improvement initiatives (Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies)
Proficiency with operations management tools and systems (e.g., case management software, legal billing platforms, document management systems)
Experience leveraging AI tools, automation, or data analytics to streamline operations and enhance decision-making
Project Management or Operations Management certification (PMP, CAPM, ASQ, or equivalent)
Excellent leadership and communication skills with ability to guide teams and translate legal/technical concepts for diverse audiences
Experience managing operational budgets, contracts, and performance metrics

Responsibilities

Plan, design, and implement strategic business operations improvements and initiatives for the People Legal (Employment Law) organization, focusing on optimization and driving operational efficiency.
Diagram, analyze, and evaluate existing business processes to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement.
Develop and implement robust metrics to measure process performance, identifying key indicators for future improvement opportunities and demonstrating return on investment.
Collect and analyze data to identify root causes of problems and measure performance against process requirements.
Align improvement initiatives directly to address shortfalls and drive measurable gains in efficiency, accuracy, or compliance.
Provide consultation on the application of techniques to improve process performance and service quality.
Survey and analyze industry standard methodologies for relevant techniques and processes to advise strategic direction.
Organize, lead, and facilitate cross-functional project teams, fostering teamwork across People Legal, the broader Legal organization, People & Communities, and other internal/external stakeholders.
Serve as a key liaison for budgetary components related to operational initiatives and improvements.
See opportunities for and guide the integration of AI and automation tools to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness within People Legal.
Drive digital integration initiatives within People Legal operations.
Develop and execute clear internal communication strategies to support operational changes, initiatives, and standard processes.
May deliver impactful presentations and training courses on process measurement, analysis, improvement, and control methodologies.

Benefits

medical, dental and vision insurance
a 401(k) plan with a Cisco matching contribution
paid parental leave
short and long-term disability coverage
basic life insurance
10 paid holidays per full calendar year, plus 1 floating holiday for non-exempt employees
1 paid day off for employee’s birthday, paid year-end holiday shutdown, and 4 paid days off for personal wellness determined by Cisco
16 days of paid vacation time per full calendar year, accrued at rate of 4.92 hours per pay period for full-time employees (non-exempt)
flexible vacation time off program (exempt)
80 hours of sick time off provided on hire date and each January 1st thereafter, and up to 80 hours of unused sick time carried forward from one calendar year to the next
Optional 10 paid days per full calendar year to volunteer
annual bonuses (non-sales roles)
performance-based incentive pay (sales roles)
Cisco restricted stock units