Work Allocation & Development Manager
About the Role
Our client, a leading global law firm, is seeking a Work Allocation & Development Manager to join their Washington, DC, or New York office. This role presents an exciting opportunity to support the professional growth of legal talent within the firm. The Work Allocation & Development Manager will engage directly with associates to align their interests and career aspirations with work opportunities, ensuring a well-rounded experience while addressing the firm’s business needs.
This role is highly people-focused and requires building strong relationships with key stakeholders across the organization. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of resource management, associate development, and law firm operations.
Reporting Structure
The Work Allocation & Development Manager reports to the Senior Manager, Allocation & Development and collaborates with practice leadership, staffing partners, and the People Advisory team.
Key Responsibilities
-
Manage work allocation processes to ensure fair and transparent distribution of assignments across associates.
-
Support associates’ professional growth through career development discussions and targeted training opportunities.
-
Collaborate with Staffing Partners to align associates with suitable matters based on availability and experience.
-
Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to work allocation and report findings to leadership.
-
Conduct regular check-ins with associates to assess workload, career objectives, and development needs.
-
Ensure matters are staffed efficiently, considering attorney utilization rates and individual capacity.
-
Maintain open lines of communication with relevant stakeholders on staffing needs, professional development, and firm initiatives.
-
Escalate high-risk staffing situations to senior leadership as necessary.
Practice Management
-
Work closely with Regional Section Heads and Staffing Partners to track associate performance and feedback.
-
Collaborate with the People Advisory team to provide comprehensive support for associate development.
-
Partner with Learning & Development and Professional Support Lawyers to facilitate access to training programs.
-
Support firm-wide engagement initiatives aimed at fostering a positive work environment.
Qualifications & Skills
-
Bachelor’s degree required.
-
Prior experience in resource management, associate development, or work allocation, preferably within a professional services or law firm environment.
-
Strong commercial awareness and business acumen.
-
Excellent negotiation and diplomacy skills.
-
Strong project management abilities with a client service focus.
-
Proactive and resourceful, demonstrating initiative and problem-solving capabilities.
-
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
-
Ability to influence and drive change effectively.
-
Strong technical proficiency, including experience with resource management software and Excel.
-
Flexibility to work outside standard business hours as needed.
Location & Reporting
This hybrid role is based in Washington, DC, or New York and reports to the Senior Manager, Allocation & Development.
Compensation & Benefits
Compensation is competitive and based on experience, qualifications, and market considerations. The firm offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability coverage, 401(k) retirement savings, vacation time, parental leave, and performance-based bonuses.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Our client is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal employment opportunities for all individuals regardless of background or status. Accommodations are available for applicants requiring assistance during the hiring process.
The firm reserves the right to modify this job description as needed. This description outlines key responsibilities but is not exhaustive of all duties associated with the role.
