Dallas - Practice Operations Manager - Corporate

ABOUT US

For Business Professionals, Winston & Strawn presents an exciting opportunity to be a part of a leading global law firm. With our commitment to excellence, diversity, a collaborative work environment, and an emphasis on professional growth, Winston offers a platform for individuals seeking to advance their careers in a dynamic and rewarding environment. Winston is known for its collaborative and collegial culture. We believe teamwork is an essential component in providing high-quality legal services and we value the talents and skills of our entire business professional team.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Practice Operations Manager-Corporate plays a key role in supporting the daily financial and operational performance of the Firm's practice groups. This includes monitoring key financial metrics; support for business planning; and partnering with stakeholders to improve matter profitability and operational efficiency. The POM also supports personnel-related initiatives in consultation with the DPO and Talent Team, including lateral integration, partnership promotion process, staffing, and timekeeper utilization management.

Reporting to the Director of Practice Operations (Corporate), the MPO serves as a strategic liaison between attorneys and administrative teams, helping to develop and execute practice group business plans, drive innovation through technology, and advance the Firm's strategic priorities at the practice level.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Management

• Monitor financial performance at the Department and Practice Group levels, including utilization, realization, revenue, profitability, and other performance metrics. Liaise with the financial reporting team to enhance practice group level financial reporting.
• Report regularly on key performance indicators (KPIs). Collaborate with DPOs to make recommendations for appropriate actions to improve group financial performance, monitor progress and execute related action items.
• Collaborate with Director of Practice Operations (DPOs) and Pricing Team to enhance attorney understanding of client/matter profitability, including broader adoption of matter budgets, value-based fee arrangements, and drive team leverage to enhance profitability.
• Monitor and manage practice group expense budgets.

Workforce Management

• Assist with transition and integration of newly hired lateral partners and groups.
• Support the partnership nomination and promotions process, including preparation of candidate materials for Department Leadership and the Executive Committee; assist in managing the partnership candidate pipeline by Practice Group.
• Collaborate with Professional Development team to support the development of training programs for associates, ensuring alignment with firm strategic priorities.
• Ensure that practice groups are meeting and communicating regularly and effectively on issues relating to practice development, business development, talent management and financial performance issues.

Operations Management and Execution of the Firm's Strategic Plan

• Assist in the development and execution of business plans at the department and practice group levels, in collaboration with Practice Group Leaders and Business Development teams.
• Collaborate with the CPO and DPOs to drive and monitor execution of the practice components of the Firm's strategic plan with a focus on revenue generation and operational efficiency at the practice level.
• Drive innovation at the intersection of technology and practice operations by facilitating communication between technology teams and practice groups, streamlining processes, enhancing workflows, and driving efficiencies through technology (including practice-focused AI evaluation, integration and adoption).
• Assist with managing special projects and assigned Firm-wide initiatives that support client acquisition and expansion goals.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's Degree required, degree in finance or accounting preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in law firm operations, professional services operations, or financial/business management roles with demonstrated project management experience required.
• Must live within a commutable distance to the firm office with the ability to come into the office 3-4 days per week.

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Results-Oriented: Proven ability to meet tight deadlines while managing multiple projects independently. A highly motivated self-starter with a strong work ethic.
• Analytical & Strategic: Possesses strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to think strategically and translate insights into actionable plans.
• Communication & Collaboration: Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Proven ability to effectively collaborate with diverse teams, including partners, senior leadership, and all levels of firm personnel. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships, foster teamwork, and drive consensus.
• Organized & Efficient: Highly organized with strong information gathering and research skills.