Director of Legal Operations

Bring your drive for excellence, teamwork, and customer commitment to Independence. Join us as we renew and reimagine the future of health care. Together, we will achieve our mission to enhance the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve.

The Director of Legal Operations is responsible for overseeing the operational, financial, and reporting functions of the legal department. This role manages knowledge systems, communications (including operational reports and newsletters), and drives efficiency in relationships with external law firms, alternative legal service providers, and vendors. The Director will implement strategies to reduce costs, enhance transparency, and strengthen controls. Working closely with department leadership, this position will identify and deploy tools to support legal operations, including testing, training, and ongoing support. The Director will also lead knowledge management initiatives, organize subject matter training, and coordinate quarterly department meetings.

Key Responsibilities:

Legal Department Operations

• Oversee day-to-day operations, including budgeting, financial controls, reporting, and vendor management (e.g. outside firms, alternative legal service providers and other suppliers and vendors)
• Lead knowledge management initiatives, including systems for storing and sharing legal materials and delivering regular subject matter training.
• Coordinate work with outside counsel and internal clients to ensure cost‑effective, transparent, and results‑driven relationships, including the development and enforcement of clear engagement standards, budgets, and performance expectations.
• Develop and deliver legal compliance training for client groups and staff.
• Implement strategic vision for the department in collaboration with the General Counsel.
• Oversee all administrative functions to ensure that the legal department operates smoothly and efficiently.

Process Improvement & Technology

• Identify and lead projects to improve efficiency in legal services, including business process enhancements and technology adoption (e.g., AI solutions).
• Manage legal systems and tools (matter management, e-billing, document management, etc.).
• Partner with IT to evaluate and enhance technology resources and ensure disaster preparedness.

Financial & Performance Management

• Prepare and monitor annual budgets and long-term fiscal plans.
• Establish financial controls and guidelines to optimize cost-effectiveness.
• Lead cost and performance management for suppliers and outside counsel.
• Develops and maintains best-in-class billing guidelines; drives strategies for efficient outside counsel utilization and performance management. Reviews legal invoices for compliance and cost optimization, and oversees contract and budget management for outside counsel.

Records & Compliance

• Oversee records management governance, including access, security, audits, and compliance with legal and corporate requirements.
• Ensure department policies, communications, and training programs are developed and implemented.
• Monitor relevant CLE opportunities for attorneys and track attorney compliance.

Paralegal & Administrative Oversight

• Supervise paralegals and/or legal support staff, including hiring, training, performance management, and professional development.
• Manage workflow, assignments, and quality of work produced by paralegals.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and tools to ensure effective utilization and productivity of paralegal staff.
• Foster a collaborative environment between attorneys and paralegals.

Qualifications:

• MBA or JD preferred; Bachelor's degree required.
• Minimum 5+ years of experience in legal operations or related field.
• Strong financial acumen and experience with budgeting and cost management.
• Preferred experience in legal operations management, document management systems, and working with law firms or in-house legal departments.
• Demonstrated experience supervising paralegals or legal support staff.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional projects and drive process improvements.
• Excellent judgment, strategic thinking, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proactive, entrepreneurial approach to problem-solving and solution development.

Independence has implemented a "Hybrid" model which consists of Associates working in the office 3 days a week (Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday) and remotely 2 days a week (Monday & Friday). This role is designated as a role that fits into the "Hybrid" model. While associates may work remotely on our designated remote days, the work must be performed in the Tri-State Area of Delaware, New Jersey, or Pennsylvania.

IBX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, or disability.

Must have an Android or iOS device which is compatible with the free Microsoft Authenticator app.