Legal Operations Specialist

Position summary

The Legal Operations Specialist works closely with Directors and Managers within Legal Operations, as well as cross-functional partners, including Business Development and Finance. This role supports the management and day-to-day operations of various Practice and Industry Groups by contributing to the development and execution of operational and financial initiatives.

The position plays a key role in enhancing the firm's profitability, efficiency, and overall value through data-driven insights and process support. It requires a well-rounded skill set, including financial literacy, analytical thinking, attention to detail, sound judgment, and the ability to manage and improve operational processes.

Job duties and responsibilities

• Prepare and support the development of recurring and ad hoc reports, including Practice Group metrics, utilization, relative profitability (RP), realization, financial reviews, and group-level financial summaries.
• Serve as a resource to the Legal Operations team and collaborate with firmwide departments such as Accounting, Client Value, Business Development, Human Resources, and IT.
• Assist in the annual budgeting process, including expense and margin projections, allocation of costs, and ongoing review of cost center performance against budget.
• Partner with the Accounting and Legal Operations teams to support financial operations, including monitoring accounts receivable (A/R) and unbilled time (UBT), coordinating billing and collections efforts, analyzing write-offs, and tracking expenses.
• Utilize data warehouses and other research and reporting tools to analyze financial and operational data, supporting informed decision-making and knowledge development.
• Provide ongoing support to Legal Operations Directors and Managers on strategic and operational initiatives.
• Perform miscellaneous other duties as assigned by leadership.

Job duties and responsibilities included are not exhaustive and may be supplemented asnecessary.  Reed Smith reserves the right to revise or modify job duties and responsibilities at any time. 

Requirements

Education: Degree in Business, Finance, Accounting or related discipline preferred but not required.

Experience: A minimum of 2 years relevant business administration in a similar capacity required. Experience in a law firm or other professional services firm preferred.

Skills:

• Good knowledge of PCs and the Microsoft Office suite, including strong Excel skills and familiarity with data warehouse and other databases.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team-oriented, collaborative environment is essential.
• Ability to maintain a client-service focus and mindset.
• Ability to build relationships at all levels.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent writing, organizational, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative, support on projects, respond to project adjustments and alterations promptly and efficiently and handle multiple competing priorities.
• Ability to welcome change and embrace the challenges and opportunities therein.

Additional information

Supervisory responsibilities: None.

Equipment used: Personal computer and other office equipment such as telephone, calculator, copier, scanner, etc.

Essential job functions:

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods and perform tasks requiring prolonged and/or extensive computer use.
• Ability to use computers, telecommunications, and digital collaboration tools to perform core job responsibilities.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to work extended hours as required to meet project, client, or business needs.

Working conditions

You will be required to work in the office at minimum 4 days per week. Occasionally called upon to work hours in excess of your normal daily schedule. The details of your weekly schedule will be discussed further with your direct supervisor.

Pay ranges
This is a non-exempt position. The hourly wage range for this role is $38.32 to $43.51, with an estimated annual compensation range of $79,700 to $90,500, based on expected hours. This represents the presently anticipated pay range for this position. Actual pay may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to location and experience.

Employee benefits overview

Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Medical Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Virtual Health Services
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Accident Insurance
• Hospital Indemnity Insurance
• Critical Illness Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Short-Term Disability Coverage
• Long-Term Disability Coverage
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Lyra Health Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid Family Leave (for eligible Exempt and Non-Exempt staff)
• Transportation Benefit
• Back-up Child Care Services
• College Coach Program
• Pet Insurance
• Paid Sick Time (for Exempt staff)
• Paid Time Off (available to all full-time, non-temporary employees)

Reed Smith offers a challenging work environment, business casual dress code and a total compensation package that includes a competitive salary, flexible benefits program, tuition assistance, and generous 401(k) plan.

Reed Smith is an Equal Opportunity Employer with Core Values of Integrity, Excellence, Teamwork & Respect, Innovation, and Impact. Reed Smith also provides reasonable accommodations in accordance with law, including in the application and interview process.

Qualified candidates only. No search firms.