Records Department Manager

Arnold & Porter is seeking an experienced and strategic Records Department Manager to assist in leading the firm's Records Management operations across multiple offices. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing the management of physical and electronic records throughout their lifecycle while ensuring compliance with firm policies, client requirements, and legal and regulatory obligations. The Manager will lead a team of Records Management professionals, drive operational excellence, support technology and AI-enabled process improvements, and partner with attorneys, business professionals, and firm leadership to deliver efficient, secure, and client-focused records management services. This role is located in the Washington, DC office. Key Responsibilities Lead the day-to-day operations of the Information Governance/Records Department across all firm offices, providing coaching, guidance, and performance management for department staff. Develop departmental goals, operating procedures, and strategic initiatives that align with the firm's long-term Records Management objectives. Oversee the lifecycle management of physical and electronic records, including retention, retrieval, storage, transfer, imaging, preservation, and defensible disposition. Ensure compliance with the firm's Records Retention Policy, ethical screening requirements, and applicable client, legal, and regulatory obligations. Manage the receipt, transfer, and disposition of client files related to attorney arrivals, departures, and client file requests. Oversee the conversion of paper records to electronic format and ensure the integrity and accessibility of records within the firm's Document Management System. Maintain responsibility for the firm's Tax & Estates records and other specialized collections. Evaluate, implement, and optimize records management technologies, including AI-enabled solutions, automation initiatives, and software upgrades to improve operational efficiency. Develop, document, and maintain departmental policies, procedures, and best practices. Monitor departmental performance, identify process improvement opportunities, and implement solutions that enhance service delivery and compliance. Prepare and manage departmental budgets, monitor expenditures, and provide financial reporting and variance analyses. Assess staffing, equipment, and space requirements and make recommendations to support departmental operations. Develop and deliver training programs for Information Governance/Records Management staff and educate firm personnel on records management policies and procedures. Partner with attorneys, business professionals, and firm leadership to resolve complex records management issues and deliver exceptional internal client service. Perform other leadership responsibilities and special projects as assigned. Qualifications Bachelor's degree required or an equivalent combination of education and at least 10 years of progressively responsible records management experience, including supervisory responsibility. Extensive knowledge of legal records management and Information Governance principles, practices, and retention requirements. Experience managing records operations within a law firm or other professional services environment strongly preferred. Experience leading organizational change, process improvement, and technology implementation initiatives. Familiarity with AI tools and automation technologies and their practical application within records management and business operations. Expertise with document management and records management systems. Advanced proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams, and SharePoint. Strong understanding of electronic records management, imaging, and digital information lifecycle management. Ability to evaluate, test, and implement new technologies and software enhancements. Typing proficiency of at least 50 words per minute. The successful candidate will demonstrate Proven leadership and people management skills, including coaching, mentoring, performance management, and staff development. Strategic thinking with the ability to align departmental initiatives with organizational priorities. Excellent judgment, professionalism, and discretion when handling confidential and sensitive information. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels. Ability to manage multiple priorities while delivering high-quality results in a fast-paced environment. Strong financial and budget management skills. Commitment to innovation and continuous improvement, including the responsible use of AI and emerging technologies. Outstanding customer service orientation with a collaborative, solutions-focused approach. High level of integrity, accountability, and reliability. Why Join Arnold & Porter? Arnold & Porter is committed to innovation, collaboration, and delivering exceptional client service. As the Records Department Manager, you will play a key leadership role in advancing the firm's Records Management program, driving operational excellence, modernizing records management operations, and leading a talented team dedicated to protecting one of the firm's most valuable assets—its information. The anticipated base salary for this position is $120,000 to $155,000. The actual base salary offered will depend on a variety of factors, including without limitation, the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and if applicable, the location in which the applicant lives and/or from which they will be performing the job. For benefits information, please click here The firm may provide a discretionary bonus annually. #J-18808-Ljbffr Arnold & Porter