Chief of Practice Development

The law firm of Houston Harbaugh, P.C., a growing mid-size law firm with a commitment to excellence, is looking for an experienced Chief of Practice Development ( CPD ).

The Chief of Practice Development will provide proactive support to assist senior management and individual Practice Groups within the firm in the implementation of strategic growth plans and assist with the management and growth of the firms diverse practice areas.

The role will include overseeing expansion and growth of existing Practice Areas and development of new Practice Areas, as well as recruitment and staffing of attorneys, paralegals and support staff.

The CPD reports to the Law Firm’s Chief Operating Officer.

Duties and Responsibilities

Implementation of Strategic Growth Plans :

• Assist in implementing strategic growth plans for growth of the Firm as a whole and its individual Practice Groups. This will involve working with Practice Area Chairs, Firm Executive Committee Members, and other administrative personnel to create, manage, develop and promote practice area planning, business development opportunities and growth opportunities.
• Be a resource for Practice Area Chairs for growth, development and operation of practice areas.
• Oversee and work with the Firm’s Growth and Recruitment and Retention Committees.
• Manage and coordinate evaluations and reviews that measure the specific skills of personnel in individual Practice Groups.

Talent and Practice Area Development :

Identify and recruit talented professionals (attorneys and support professionals) to the Firm consistent with the Strategic Growth Plans and specific needs of Practice Groups and the Firm as a whole.

This includes individual attorney recruitment and recruitment of groups of attorneys.

• Strategic planning, implementation, consultation, and general oversight and execution of attorney recruiting and development.
• Be responsible for administrative aspects of the recruitment, coordination and hiring of lawyers (summer associates, law clerks, entry-level attorneys, lateral attorneys, and partner track career attorneys) paralegals, legal assistants and other support staff positions as needed, including interviewing and onboarding.
• Oversee Summer Associate and law clerk program and develop and implement structure for mentoring associate attorneys.
• Administer the Firm’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiative in the context of retention and recruitment.

Marketing and Client Relations :

• Works with Marketing Manager for proper utilization of marketing functions, material updates and improvements.
• Collaborate with Marketing Manager on business development initiatives, including client seminars and entertainment.
• Provide feedback and information on law firm rankings and ratings.

Qualifications

Education and / or Experience :

• Bachelor’s degree (Juris Doctor preferred)
• Law firm experience in business development and / or recruitment of at least 5 years
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Knowledge of recruiting industry, concepts, practices and procedures
• Possesses superior organizational and time-management skills, including the ability to prioritize projects and meet deadlines
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, ability to work independently and be proactive
• Strong computer skills including knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint

Other Skills and Abilities

In addition to the above, the following will also be required of the successful candidate :

• Strong organizational skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Good judgment
• Able to accept responsibility and take initiative
• Strong interpersonal communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Able to preserve confidentiality and exercise discretion
• Able to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines and priorities
• Perform other work-related duties and special projects, as required and assigned

Contact

Please e-mail your resume and cover letter to [email protected]