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Director, Administrative Services

Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP (including its associated entities) is an elite global law firm with world-class practices across the board. Clients know they can rely on us for their most challenging legal and business matters. From offices in the world’s key financial centers and political capitals, our more than 1,000 lawyers collaborate seamlessly to deliver exceptional service, sophisticated advice and creative, practical solutions.
Job title
Director, Administrative Services
Location
New York
Department
Administration
Reports to

Chief Administrative Officer

Exempt/Non-Exempt
Exempt
Work Schedule

Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (additional hours as required)

Position Summary

The Director, Administrative Services oversees the management of all daily operations of the Administrative Assistant and Reception Services departments, ensuring established protocols and best practices are adhered to at all times. Directly manages Administrative Assistant department managers and reception staff.  Responsible for all administrative assistants supporting lawyers in NY including those on legal services teams, as well as for all NY receptionists and reception services. Responsibility for management of additional departments may be considered dependent upon candidates’ interests, background, and experience. 

Essentials Duties and Responsibilities

Typical responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Responsible for successful operation of Administrative Assistants and Reception services departments
  • Provide guidance and recommendations to managers on coaching and mentoring staff, as well as on disciplinary actions
  • Recommend resources and training needs for administrative and reception staff ensuring maximum efficiency of responsibilities and competencies
  • Identify and manage trends of legal staff and administration needs to ensure optimal coverage
  • Oversee scheduling, training and compliance of policies and procedures
  • Monitor overtime and review reports
  • Overall responsibility for timely completion of performance evaluations; conduct evaluations of direct reports and review evaluations of department staff with the assigned managers
  • Interview and select candidates for open positions
  • Oversee training and orientation of new administrative assistants and receptionists
  • Maintain department data on Intranet and in training materials
  • Provide overview of departments to new lawyers
  • Plan and lead meetings with staff and managers
  • Liaise with partners, lawyers, and all levels of management
Qualifications / Position Requirements
  • Ability to manage a varied workload and meet deadlines
  • Must be punctual and reliable
  • Proficient in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and other applications as needed
  • Strong interpersonal and leadership skills
  • Must be able to work collaboratively with lawyers and staff, demonstrating strong teamwork and a positive attitude
  • Flexibility in daily schedule to accommodate unexpected situations arising from attorneys/legal assistants and other staff
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ensure confidentiality of all the Firm’s and client’s documentation and information
  • Knowledge of business and management practices and procedures
  • Knowledge of general human resources principles and firm policies
Education and/or Experience
  • Bachelor’s degree highly preferred or years of experience commensurate with degree
  • Minimum ten years’ experience preferred specifically within a law firm environment overseeing corporate administrative staff
  • Prior experience working closely with lawyers and senior leadership
  • Prior experience overseeing various administrative functions and operations highly preferred
Compensation

The expected base salary for this position ranges from $225,000 - $275,000. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, licensure or certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Davis Polk offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

To apply, please email a resume and cover letter.
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.