Director of Knowledge & Practice Innovation

We are looking for a strategic Director of Knowledge & Practice Innovation to lead the firm's Knowledge and Innovation function. This pivotal role involves executing the Knowledge & Innovation strategy to enhance efficiency and attorney experience across all practices and departments. Reporting to the Senior Director of Practice Management, the Director will work collaboratively with all practice groups and functional departments. The ideal candidate will possess strong operational and technical skills, maintain a big-picture view of the firm’s business, and provide direction and inspiration to Knowledge & Innovation Attorneys and other technical professionals. This position is available in any of their U.S. office locations - New York City, Washington D.C., San Francisco, Santa Monica, Silicon Valley, or Seattle.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• Collaborate with Practice Group Leaders, COO, and Senior Director of Practice Management to lead the firm-wide practice technologies function.
• Provide technology expertise and guidance to firm leadership, developing guidelines and best practices for practice group technologies.
• Develop and implement practice innovation strategies in partnership with Practice Group Leaders.
  
  

Collaboration & Innovation

• Work with practice group professionals to support the firm’s strategic objectives through innovative technology solutions.
• Lead Innovation Attorneys and department managers to develop and deliver user-centered business solutions.
  
  

Management & Implementation

• Oversee the Knowledge & Innovation team in automating firm documents and processes, building knowledge-sharing systems, and integrating business processes.
• Recommend and initiate ongoing improvements in knowledge and innovation areas.
• Drive cultural change across the firm, promoting continuous learning, innovation, and client service.
  
  

Technology & Training

• Stay current with trends in knowledge management, legal technology, and law firm business practices.
• Collaborate with the IT group to assess and implement new technology products.
• Support the Legal Personnel and Training department in delivering legal substantive training.
  
  

Vendor & Contract Management

• Oversee the negotiation of all vendor contracts within the department.
  
  

Experience

Desired Skills and Qualifications

• 8-10 years’ experience in knowledge management, operations management, process improvement, marketing operations, legal practice, or legal operations in a law firm or corporate setting.
• Demonstrated experience in scaling innovation and process improvement in a professional services firm.
  
  

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree required.
• Advanced degree in a relevant field (MLIS, MBA, JD) preferred.
  
  

Technical Skills

• Deep understanding of technology and business process improvement methodologies.
• Advanced knowledge of technology systems and applications used in law firms and/or legal departments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and SharePoint.
  
  

Soft Skills

• Strong operational experience with excellent project management and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to build relationships and foster collaboration across practice groups and departments.
• Exceptional communication, collaboration, and team leadership skills.
• Empathy and engagement skills to view processes and service delivery through a business lens.
• Capability to grow team members' expertise in project management, innovation, and process improvement.
  
  

Application Process

Qualified candidates are invited to submit their resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications and interest in the Director of Knowledge & Practice Innovation role to Gabby DelPozzo, Vice President of Professional Services at Buchanan Law US email: gabriella.delpozzo@wearebuchanan.com or to discuss the role in more detail tel: +1 347 341 8315