Data Collection Manager Litigation & Practice Support

Data Collection Manager Litigation & Practice Support

Chicago, IL: Hybrid Work From Home Schedule -- onsite in the loop 3 days/week, WFH 2 days/week

The Data Collection Manager will be leading the forensic data collection function within a law firm, that is being brought in house for the first time. We're looking for this person to lead the strategy and execution around creating a new forensic data collection and digital evidence function, and integrate this as a new service line to the firm's portfolio of legal support services. You'll be responsible for overseeing the firm's data collection activities in connection with e-discovery and digital forensics in litigation and investigative matters. This role requires a deep understanding of the legal, technical, and procedural aspects of digital evidence identification, preservation, and collection. You'll be part of a team of 50, and be managing project based initiatives, and the corresponding resources for these projects that include analysts, technicians and other project managers. You'll work cross-functionally with legal, compliance, and cybersecurity stakeholders to ensure defensible, efficient, and secure collection practices.

What You'll Be Doing

• Manage and oversee the collection of digital evidence in support of client matter engagements.
• Advise lawyers and client regarding identification, preservation and collection
• Supervise a team of analysts and technicians during acquisition processes.
• Coordinate with legal, compliance, and cybersecurity teams to support investigations and litigation holds.
• Ensure proper handling of sensitive data and maintain strict confidentiality and integrity of all collected materials
• Develop and implement standardized procedures for evidence collection, preservation, and chain-of-custody documentation.
• Maintain and calibrate collection tools and technologies (e.g., Relativity Collect, Pinpoint Labs, and Cellebrite).
• Provide guidance on best practices for remote and on-site collections across various devices and data sources (e.g., laptops, mobile devices, cloud platforms).
• Conduct quality control and audit checks to ensure completeness and accuracy of forensic collections.
• Document methodologies and findings in clear, defensible reports suitable for legal proceedings.

Skills We're Seeking

• 7+ years of experience working in data-focused roles related to eDiscovery
• 3+ years of experience with digital forensics using tools such as Cellebrite, FTK Imager, X1 Social Discovery, Relativity Collect, Pinpoint Labs
• Strong experience working with the eDiscovery lifecycle, EDRM framework, and chain-of-custody protocols
• Experience collecting data from a range of devices including mobile devices, cloud platforms (e.g., M365, Google Workspace), laptops, and enterprise systems

Nice To Haves Wish List In This Order

• Certification(s) in this domain: EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE), Certified Computer Examiner (CCE), GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA), Cellebrite Certified Operator/Examiner (CCO/CCE), or AccessData Certified Examiner (ACE)
• Bachelor's or Master's Degree, ideally in a Legal, Data or IT related field
• Experience providing expert or fact witness testimony in legal proceedings related to digital forensics or data collection