DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Director of Information Technology Full‑Time | Manhattan, NY | Hybrid (3–4 days onsite) Our client is a venture‑focused boutique law firm that delivers Big Law‑level expertise with greater agility and partner attention. The firm advises startups, investors, and growth companies across private equity, M&A, capital markets, fund formation, IP, and litigation. With a strong national presence, it is recognized for its work in venture capital and emerging companies, combining deep expertise with an entrepreneurial, forward‑thinking approach, including investments in legal tech and AI. The Opportunity SoHo Dragon represents a boutique business law firm that is seeking a Director of Information Technology to lead its technology strategy and day‑to‑day operations. The role reports to firm leadership and partners with a Technology Steering Committee to guide priorities across legal technology, cybersecurity, and emerging tools such as AI. The IT Director will oversee managed service providers while developing a forward‑looking technology roadmap focused on improving efficiency, strengthening security, and supporting the firm’s continued growth. In Summary Own the firm’s entire technology function – oversee day‑to‑day IT operations through managed service partners, ensuring performance, reliability, and security. Set and drive technology strategy – build a multi‑year roadmap and advise leadership on investments across legal tech, cybersecurity, and AI. Use technology as a competitive lever – improve client service, increase operational efficiency, and position the firm as a modern, tech‑enabled business. Key Responsibilities IT Operations & Service Partner Management Oversee and manage the firm’s strategic IT service partners, ensuring service delivery meets performance expectations and SLAs. Serve as the primary internal escalation point for technology issues affecting attorneys, staff, and firm operations. Manage relationships with technology vendors and negotiate contracts to deliver value and cost efficiency. Ensure the reliability, security, and performance of the firm’s IT infrastructure across all office locations. Technology Strategy & Steering Committee Advise the firm’s Technology Steering Committee on strategic technology investments, emerging trends, and prioritization. Develop and maintain a multi‑year technology roadmap aligned with the firm’s growth strategy and client service objectives. Lead evaluation and implementation of legal tech platforms. Champion AI adoption across the firm – identifying practical, high‑value use cases for generative AI and legal AI tools, and guiding responsible implementation. Cybersecurity & Compliance Own the firm’s cybersecurity posture, policies, and incident response readiness. Ensure compliance with applicable data protection regulations and legal industry security standards. Drive a security‑first culture through training, awareness, and policy enforcement. Manage business continuity and disaster recovery planning. Stakeholder Engagement & Communication Build strong working relationships with firm leadership, partners, associates, and staff to understand and proactively address technology needs. Communicate complex technology concepts clearly to non‑technical audiences, including presentations to firm leadership and the Steering Committee. Qualifications Required 10+ years of progressive IT leadership experience, with a meaningful portion in a law firm or professional services environment. Demonstrated experience managing outsourced/managed IT service providers and holding vendors accountable to high performance standards. Strong working knowledge of legal technology platforms (document management, e‑billing, practice management, collaboration tools) and the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. Proven ability to develop and execute technology strategy at an organizational level. Experience advising senior leadership on technology direction, ROI, and risk. Deep knowledge of cybersecurity principles, frameworks, and best practices in a legal or professional services context. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; comfortable presenting to partners and firm leadership. Preferred Experience with AI and emerging legal tech tools and the ability to evaluate and implement them thoughtfully. Familiarity with the unique technology needs of boutique or mid‑size law firms. Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field; advanced degree or relevant certifications (CISSP, CISM, PMP) a plus. Startup or high‑growth firm mindset: scrappy, resourceful, and energized by building – not just maintaining. Who We’re Looking For We’re looking for someone who’s naturally curious, brings energy, and is genuinely excited about what technology can do for a growing law firm. This isn’t a “keep the lights on” role – we want someone who spots opportunities, thinks ahead, and actually gets things done. You’ll need the confidence to build trust with partners, along with the mindset to challenge how things have always been done. This is an entrepreneurial environment – things move quickly, initiative is valued, and people are expected to take ownership. If you’re looking for a role where you can make a real impact, shape how technology is used across the firm, and help a high‑performing business stay competitive, this could be a great fit. Who We’re NOT Looking For A pure “keep the lights on” IT manager who focuses only on maintenance and support without thinking strategically. Someone overly theoretical or hands‑off who prefers designing strategy but not owning execution or outcomes. A rigid, process‑heavy operator who struggles in a fast‑moving, entrepreneurial environment or hesitates to challenge the status‑quo. Compensation & Benefits Total compensation of $150,000 – $175,000, based on experience. Comprehensive benefits package. Hybrid work arrangement: 4 days onsite at our Manhattan office; remaining days remote. Opportunity to work alongside outstanding attorneys and business professionals on challenging, high‑profile matters. #J-18808-Ljbffr