Legal Operations Manager

Legal Operations ManagerJoin a USA Today Top Workplace! Morris Group, Inc., one of the largest machine tool distribution networks in North America, is a third generation, family owned and operated business that serves manufacturers of precision machined parts in the United States. Our mission is to help manufacturers maintain a competitive advantage in the world economy by improving productivity.Summary of Responsibility:We are seeking a highly motivated individual to assume a newly created Legal Operations Manager role responsible for establishing the Company's legal operations function, including development of foundational workflows, policies, and standard operating procedures.This role will provide comprehensive legal, compliance, risk management, and executive support. This position serves as a trusted partner to leadership, supporting contract administration, regulatory compliance, insurance and claims management, corporate governance, and real estate planning initiatives.This is a highly visible, detail-driven role ideal for a proactive professional who operates as the stand-alone, in-house resource working at the intersection of legal, operational, and executive decision-making.What You Will Contribute:Design and implement foundational workflows, policies, and standard operating procedures to establish the Company's legal operations function and improve efficiency.Perform risk assessments, identifying and implementing process improvements.Partner with executive leadership on governance-related initiatives and special projects, balancing legal risk management with practical business judgment and relationship-driven decision-making.Act as a trusted advisor to executive leadership, reflecting the company's long-term and value-based approach.Maintain strict confidentiality, professionalism and discretion while handling sensitive executive leadership and legal information.Serve as the internal "gatekeeper" for Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs), Sub-contractors and vendor contracts, ensuring appropriate protections are in place before business commitments are finalized.Establish and maintain processes for matter management, contract lifecycle management, and document retention.Review and manage company agreements, including customer, vendor, and partner contracts, identifying risks and escalating as appropriate.Manage relationships with outside legal counsel, including engagement coordination, matter tracking, and review and oversight of legal billing.Assist with regulatory and compliance matters, including monitoring deadlines, supporting organizational compliance programs (CMMC and others), and preparing related documentation.Administer the Company's business insurance programs, including renewal coordination with brokers, outside counsel, and internal teams, and oversight of policies, certificates of insurance, and endorsements.Oversee claims-related activities by preparing claim notices, gathering supporting documentation, and serving as a liaison with insurers, brokers, and internal teams.Support facility planning initiatives, review and summarize commercial leases and real estate-related agreements and assist with due diligence for potential real estate transactions.Other Functions:Perform related duties as requiredThe duties listed above are intended only as illustration of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar or a logical assignment to the position.Qualifications & Competencies:A minimum of seven years of progressive experience in legal operations.Background in a corporate setting is strongly preferred.Strong knowledge of corporate governance, entity management and transaction supportStrong written and verbal communication skillsProficiency with MS Office SuiteExceptionally Detail-Oriented: Demonstrates a high level of precision and judgment, identifying conflicting indemnity provisions, missing insurance endorsements, and nuanced contractual risks before they impact executive decision-making or business operations.Technically Savvy: Confidently reviews and interprets technical documentation, including cybersecurity and compliance frameworks, with the ability to translate complex requirements into clear, actionable information for leadership. Familiarity with employment-based immigration processes.Proactive and Strategic: Anticipates legal, compliance, insurance, and operational risks and independently implements documentation, controls, and processes to mitigate exposure before issues arise.Highly Discreet and Trusted: Manages sensitive executive, ownership, legal, and real estate information with absolute confidentiality, professionalism, and sound judgment.Organized and Accountable: Effectively prioritizes and manages multiple high-impact workstreams, maintaining accuracy, timeliness, and follow-through while supporting ownership and executive leadership.What's in it for You:We take great pride in our employees and offer a variety of benefits that allow our employees to be successful inside and outside of work:Competitive starting salaryMarket competitive comprehensive health benefits including a zero premium medical plan offering, vision, dental, and company paid life insurance3+ Weeks' Vacation to Start10 Company Paid Holidays401(k) retirement plan with company contributionTuition reimbursementEmployee appreciation events and perksEmployee Assistance ProgramMental and Physical Requirements:The physical demands and characteristics of the work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Must be highly mobile, able to access all areas of the premises.Ability to concentrate and remain focused while prioritizing multiple tasks, responsibilities, and projects.Ability to sit for prolonged period of times.Able to perform bending, twisting, stooping, reaching, and lifting of moderate to heavyweight material up to 50 lbs. with assistance from equipment or other employees.Ability to frequently use hands and arms.Vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.Ability to work responsibly and professionally in dynamic job sites that may involve tight timelines, changing priorities, and interaction with customers and team members.Certain positions are designated as safety-sensitive due to the nature of the work performed. Employees in these roles may also be expected to:Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, climb, and reach for extended periods while servicing equipment.Ability to work in tight spaces or awkward positions, including accessing equipment interiors and elevated areas.Strong hand–eye coordination and fine motor skills required for precise electrical, mechanical, and diagnostic work.Ability to work in industrial environments, with exposure to noise, lubricants, coolants, metal chips, and other manufacturing conditions, while consistently wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE).Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.