Office Administrative Director

Skadden • Los Angeles, CA

13d • Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking an Office Administrative Director to join our Firm. This position will be based in our Los Angeles Office (Hybrid). You will be responsible for managing the strategic and day-to-day operations of the office, implementing Firm-wide strategies and processes and ensuring the needs of the local attorneys, business services professionals and Firm clients are met. You will liaise with the Firm's regional and global support departments on operational matters and Firm-wide initiatives and implements strategic plans.

Requirements

• Deep knowledge of legal industry best practices, trends, and law firm management.
• Proven ability to collaborate with Partners and the Office Leader to develop strategy, achieve business goals, and foster a positive and inclusive office culture.
• Proven ability to lead in a matrix environment, manage change, and implement projects and processes.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and planning skills with the ability to prioritize, delegate, and troubleshoot effectively.
• Professional demeanor with high emotional intelligence and strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated leadership, collaboration, and influence, fostering trust and respect across all levels.
• Sound judgment, discretion, and ability to handle sensitive matters with impartiality and confidentiality.
• Resilient under pressure, capable of navigating business challenges and making difficult decisions.
• Proficient in relevant software (e.g., Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint) and adaptable to new technologies.
• Flexible and reliable, with the ability to travel and adjust hours to meet business needs.
• Committed to upholding firm policies, fostering cooperative relationships, and maintaining credibility.
• Bachelor's degree required
• Minimum of eight (8) years relevant office administration or human resources management experience, preferably in a legal environment

Responsibilities

• Works closely with the office leader, attorneys and business services professionals across the office to implement and identify opportunities for innovation and efficiency.
• Works with the office Partners and office managers, as applicable, to strategize and implement plans to address changing needs of the attorneys, clients, and office.
• Collaborates with the finance, technology, and talent management teams to identify and implement finance and technology solutions, as well as identify opportunities to develop talent to support the Firm's strategic initiatives.
• Monitors, analyzes, and reports on the progress and impact of strategic initiatives to the Office Leader, senior leadership, and relevant stakeholders.
• Works with the office Partners and Business Professional managers to address changing needs of the attorneys, clients and office.
• Oversees the overall administration of non-legal functions in the office, ensuring that support functions are operating efficiently.
• Manages budget and expenses throughout the offices support departments.
• Provides direction for timekeeping, billing, accounts receivable and accounts payable.
• Recommends corrective action as required.
• Assists in the preparation of the annual budget for the office in conjunction with the Financial Planning and Analysis Department.
• Supports Firm's practice and business priorities by aiding in the development of guidelines and processes to promote efficiency, effectiveness, excellent customer service and improved employee relations, in alignment with the Firm's Core Values.
• Coordinates vendor relationships both locally and in collaboration with established enterprise vendor relationships.
• Manages the office's infrastructure and collaborates with appropriate departments to ensure the acquisition and maintenance of office equipment, and vendor relationships.
• Works with the Office Leader and Chief Real Estate Officer on space utilization, lease administration and other real estate related projects.
• Provides oversight and support to practice support functions, including Legal Assistant Services, Records Management, Managing Law Clerks, Research & Knowledge Services, Secretarial and Operations Group Services.
• Coordinates various office functions including holiday, sporting, staff appreciation, well-being and community outreach events.
• Administers the office's Emergency Response Program and ensures, in consultation with the Chief Security and Support Services Officer, that effective emergency response readiness is in place and that staff is apprised of emergency response paradigms.
• Promotes Firm established standards and priorities at all levels within the office in consultation with Firm Chief Officers.
• Ensures that goals and priorities set by Firm Chief Officers are appropriately administered locally.
• Provides support and guidance to the local people team business services professionals in conjunction with the New York office People Team Directors, including employment policies, recruiting, performance management, Skadden experience, engagement, payroll and compensation, terminations, personnel record keeping, continued learning & professional development to ensure knowledge of current and effective industry trends.
• Partners with the local people team business services professionals and NYO People Team functions on personnel related initiatives, best practices and processes, when needed.
• Works with the local people team professionals to ensure compliance with office and Firm policies and procedures, and local labor laws and regulatory requirements.
• Provides assistance to expatriates, including immigration and relocation matters.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager