Managing Director (Practice Group Director) - San Francisco or Palo Alto

Managing Director – Practice Group Director (Palo Alto or San Francisco)

Our client is seeking a Managing Director to partner with firm leadership in scaling a high-growth practice group in Silicon Valley (Palo Alto or San Francisco). This role is designed for a practice leader who has not only executed at a high level, but also helped shape, design, and implement strategic initiatives within complex Big Law environments.

The Managing Director will serve as a key strategic and operational leader, working closely with partners to strengthen client relationships, drive financial performance, and implement best-in-class practice management infrastructure.

Strategic Leadership & Practice Development

• Partner with firm leadership to shape and execute the strategic direction of the practice group, ensuring alignment with broader firm objectives
• Bring a proven track record of contributing to strategy development, including involvement in ideation, structuring, and execution of practice-level initiatives (e.g., growth plans, client expansion strategies, operational transformation)
• Translate high-level strategy into actionable operating plans, driving accountability across partners and business functions
• Identify market trends, competitive dynamics, and growth opportunities to inform forward-looking business decisions
• Track and report progress against strategic initiatives, adjusting approaches as needed to optimize outcomes

Matter & Financial Management

• Oversee pitches, proposals, matter opening, budgeting, and adherence to client guidelines
• Monitor financial performance, including WIP, billing, collections, and profitability metrics
• Partner with billing teams to ensure timely, accurate invoicing aligned with client requirements
• Collaborate with collections teams to track payments and resolve issues efficiently
• Analyze and present key financial KPIs, identifying both risks and opportunities for improvement

Operational Leadership

• Serve as a primary liaison between partners and internal teams, including finance, billing, marketing, and administrative support
• Lead a cross-functional team to deliver exceptional client service and operational execution
• Implement best practices related to matter management, workflow efficiency, and resource allocation
• Coordinate with international stakeholders where applicable

Dedicated Administrative Support

• This role is fully supported by dedicated administrative resources, ensuring the Managing Director can operate at a strategic and leadership level while delegating core administrative and coordination tasks effectively.

Client Service & Relationship Management

• Strengthen and maintain key client relationships through consistent service delivery and operational excellence
• Ensure compliance with client outside counsel guidelines and reporting requirements
• Support client-facing administrative functions such as reporting, budgeting, and performance tracking
• Partner with pricing and legal project management teams to develop alternative fee arrangements and matter plans

Process Improvement & Technology

• Identify and implement opportunities to streamline processes and enhance operational efficiency
• Leverage technology platforms for tracking, reporting, and collaboration
• Train and mentor team members on systems, tools, and best practices

Qualifications

Required Experience

• 10+ years of experience, preferably in legal or law firm practice management within a Big Law environment
• Demonstrated experience contributing to and executing strategic initiatives at the practice or firm level, not solely operational execution

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Legal Studies, or a related field required
• JD or MBA is a plus

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to present complex strategic and operational concepts to senior stakeholders
• Strong leadership capabilities, including problem-solving, planning, negotiation, and decision-making
• Proven ability to operate both strategically and tactically across diverse teams
• High level of discretion, professionalism, and client service orientation
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Willingness to travel as needed

Location

This role is based in Northern California with a hybrid schedule, with flexibility to work from either a Silicon Valley (Palo Alto) or San Francisco office.

Compensation & Benefits

The anticipated salary range for this role is approximately $300,000 to $313,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and qualifications. A comprehensive benefits package is also offered, including medical, dental, vision, and retirement plans.