Managing Director, Practice Management

Managing Director | Emerging Growth Practice | Silicon Valley

An elite global law firm is seeking a Managing Director to support one of its most dynamic and high-profile practice groups focused on emerging growth companies, venture-backed businesses, founders, and investors. This is a highly visible leadership role that sits at the intersection of client strategy, financial performance, operations, and business management. The successful candidate will serve as a trusted advisor to senior partners while leading critical initiatives that drive client service excellence, operational efficiency, and long-term growth.

Locations: Palo Alto, CA or San Francisco, CA

Hybrid: 3 days onsite per week

Compensation: $230,000 – $315,000 Plus Bonus

What You'll Own:

Financial & Matter Management

• Oversee budgeting, matter management, profitability, billing, collections, and financial performance

• Monitor WIP, realization, utilization, and portfolio health metrics

• Collaborate with finance and billing teams to ensure accurate invoicing and collections

• Analyze key business indicators and identify opportunities for growth and operational improvement

Strategic Leadership

• Partner directly with senior attorneys and firm leadership on strategic planning initiatives

• Help develop and execute practice group growth strategies

• Monitor performance against business objectives and adjust plans based on market conditions and firm priorities

• Serve as a trusted business advisor on operational and financial matters

Client & Relationship Management

• Support key client relationships and ensure exceptional service delivery

• Oversee compliance with outside counsel guidelines and client requirements

• Coordinate reporting, budgeting, pricing arrangements, and matter planning

• Collaborate with client teams to strengthen relationships and improve overall client experience

Operations & Team Leadership

• Lead cross-functional teams across finance, marketing, pricing, billing, operations, and administrative support

• Drive process improvement initiatives and operational best practices

• Optimize workflows, resource allocation, and service delivery models

• Mentor and develop team members while fostering a culture of accountability and excellence

What We're Looking For:

✔ 10+ years of law firm or professional services leadership experience

✔ Strong background in practice management, operations, finance, or business management within a legal environment

✔ Experience partnering with senior attorneys, partners, and executive leadership

✔ Proven success managing financial performance, budgeting, billing, and collections

✔ Exceptional communication, executive presence, and relationship-building skills

✔ Strategic thinker with strong business acumen and operational leadership capabilities

✔ Bachelor's Degree required; JD strongly preferred