Office Manager

About Us

Finnegan is more than just a law firm – we are a powerhouse of innovation and strategy growth.  We pride ourselves on providing top-tier intellectual property services globally.  Our success is rooted in our emphasis on relationships with our clients and each other.  We care about every individual, and it is why many professionals have spent their entire careers at Finnegan.

Role Overview

The Office Manager is responsible for daily oversight, supervision, and management of support services, budgeting and accounting, and long-range planning and development of the office. This position is responsible for overseeing overall front office activities, including the reception area, mail, and facilities, and for directing and coordinating office support services and related activities, including developing and supervising programs to maximize the utilization of all services and equipment.

Responsibilities

Office Operations:

• Works with the office managing partner to develop and support the office’s goals for high quality service to internal and external clients, operations, and growth and development.
• Supports the firm’s philosophy, culture, and support services practices within a local context.
• In consultation with the DC office and the office managing partner, develops and monitors a realistic budget to facilitate planning, purchasing, and cost-effective operations.
• Develops applicable office policies that meet legal requirements.
• Manages local office vendor relationships including identifying and recommending equipment leases and purchases.
• Works with management to help plan and implement space planning, both long range and short-range including:
  • Assigning office space for new and existing personnel
  • Assessing long-term needs and making recommendations about space acquisition in consultation with the managing partner
  • Maintaining relationship with current landlord
  • Arranging internal office moves and providing arrangements for office meetings and visiting attorneys.
• Manages and oversees office accounting including payables and receivables in accordance with DC policies and procedures.
• Participates actively in professional organizations and groups to maximize networking opportunities.
• Coordinates with DC Chiefs/Directors as necessary regarding legal support, docketing, accounting, and other ancillary support service needs.
• Supports program and policy revisions in conjunction with office growth and development.
• Maintains continuous communication with office attorneys and support staff to ensure that their needs and concerns are addressed. Reports issues to respective Chief/Director.

Staff Development, Leadership and Management:

• Promotes and fosters a team culture in the office consistent with the firm’s values; provides clear leadership that establishes credibility with attorneys and other firm personnel.
• May participate in interviewing and candidate selection, assimilation, and training of new support staff, as needed.
• Provides guidance/coaching to staff members through real-time feedback during day-to-day interactions, as needed.
• Completes performance evaluation and compensation planning process in a thoughtful, fair, and timely manner; ensures development plans are in place to monitor staff growth and make appropriate progress against stated developmental goals; monitors and remediates difficult performance situations and works with Office Managing Partner, respective functional Chief and the Chief People Officer to take appropriate action.
• Identifies areas for additional training to ensure that skill levels meet the firm’s high standards of excellence. Provides guidance and suggests development opportunities to help staff members achieve longer-term career aspirations. Works with senior management to develop a strong succession plan and enhance bench strength across the office, including the upgrading of roles and personnel to move the office forward.
• Works with the Office Managing Partner and Chief People Officer to ensure staff is kept abreast of operational issues and firm initiatives, and to provide continuing education on policies and trends as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent years of experience required; advanced degree helpful.
• Three years’ experience in office administration in a law firm, including direct supervisory experience of support staff.
• Financial management and budget planning experience, including accounts payable and law firm billing experience.
• Strong computer literacy, specifically Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Familiar with local network and information resources; member of relevant professional organizations preferred.
• Ability to negotiate effectively.
• Good judgment, discretion and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Strong planning and organizational skills.
• Well-developed interpersonal and communication skills.
• Professional appearance and manner.
• Ability to work onsite daily during firm core business hours.
• Ability to communicate effectively with attorneys, outside vendors, and administrative and support staff.
• Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and prioritize multiple tasks.

 If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for promoting success, we would love to hear from you. 

The role is based in our Dallas, TX office and requires a hybrid/onsite work schedule. A full range of medical, financial and/or other benefits dependent on the position will also be offered.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: 

Finnegan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The firm is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment, as defined by applicable state and federal laws, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, physical or mental disability, medical condition, military or veteran status, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, or any other protected status in accordance with all applicable federal, state and local laws. For candidates needing reasonable accommodations or assistance with the application process, please contact Human Resources at 202.216.5400.

Our privacy policy for applicants can be found here.

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