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Full Service Law Firm | Michael Best & Friedrich LLP

Specializing in the Intersection of Business &amp; Government

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Michael Best is seeking a&nbsp;Director of Office Operations &amp; Real Estate&nbsp;to ensure the attorneys and professional staff at Michael Best have the local platform they need to deliver world-class legal services to our clients. Leading a national organization of 35+&nbsp;team members, including 6–8 direct reports who supervise the local office teams, this role is responsible for efficient delivery of professional office services to 20+ offices across the country (approximately 350,000 SF).

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As the firm continues to expand, adding new offices and operations team members each year, this leader will play a critical role in shaping and executing a national office operations strategy. Key responsibilities include driving efficiency through process improvement and standardization, managing a Class A real estate portfolio, and developing a high-performing team to support the firm's continued growth.

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Office Operations&nbsp;

Manage a team of Administrative Office Managers (AOMs) and Office Administrators (OAs) who directly supervise administrative support staff (office services and reception, records and filing specialists, facilities and maintenance) within each office.

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In alignment with Firm leadership and the Strategic Plan, establish, maintain and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that includes clear direction, goals and priorities for AOMs and local administrative staff. These SOPs should cover staff management, local procurement &amp; budget management, the efficient management of physical offices, and related other duties.

In partnership with AOMs and Office Managing Partners (OMPs), manage and oversee expenditures (P&amp;L Statements), assuring financial performance to budgets for each office location.&nbsp;

Provide analysis on and recommendation for improving administrative and support operations; including staffing, administrative workload, cost reduction, work allocation, performance of administrative teams.&nbsp;

In partnership with the Talent/HR team and within firm hiring processes, lead workforce planning and drive the interviewing and hiring of administrative support staff for the respective offices, recommending selection decisions.&nbsp;

Assure onboarding training and cross-training, provided by direct line managers, are effective, sufficient, and align with the evolving needs of the Firm.

Hold AOMs and administrative staff accountable for performance expectations and development that support Firm objectives, including:

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Travel to Firm offices on a regular basis to inspect operations, conduct listening tours, and build relationships with OMPs, AOMs, administrative staff, and timekeepers.

In conjunction with the local OMP and AOM, and under the direction of the COO, manage the day-to-day administration of all office leases on behalf of the firm, acting as a steward of its finances and in accordance with its objectives. This role manages all related execution, including, but not limited to:&nbsp;

In the event that additional office space is needed, lead the search for new office accommodations, provide analysis and recommendations to firm leadership

Manage relationships with the firm’s leasing agents, landlords, property management and other related vendors

Ensure the physical office maintenance of each office – working with internal teams and 3rd&nbsp;parties to see that each office is maintained to a professional standard and our internal teams have a safe and productive working environment

Ensure the physical safety and security of each office, including access control, general security standards, and emergency/disaster preparedness, and coordinating site-level business continuity in partnership with the CIO

Oversee the execution of new office build outs, expansion and renovations, including:

Monitor employee usage of the office space and its resources, considering how to:

&nbsp;Budget Management &amp; Other

Lead planning and budgeting processes for all Office Operations, lease &amp; vendor agreements, and office build outs / renovations.

In partnership with OMPs and Finance leadership, establish reasonable budgets for internal firm-sponsored events (e.g.: holiday observances, employee recognition events) and oversee planning and implementation of office event plans.

Maintain the integrity, organization, and confidentiality of facilities, lease, vendor, and other firm records, both in paper and electronic formats.  

Assist with and conduct internal process audits, tests and evaluations, as needed.

Serve as an active member of relevant committees within the Firm, as needed.

All other duties, as assigned and/or recommended.

Location

This position is based in our Chicago, Waukesha, Milwaukee, Denver, Charlotte, or Raleigh office.

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Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Management, Real Estate, Human Resources, or related field) is minimally required. &nbsp; comparable work experience may be considered

Preferred: professional certification such as IFMA (FMP or CFM), BOMA (RPA), or PMP

Experience

7+ years’ progressively-responsible office management &amp; administrative leadership experience is minimally required

5+ years with Real Estate Facilities Management and Lease Management

5+ years with direct accountability managing complex budgets

5+ years directly managing geographically diverse team members, preferably managing a total organization of 20+ reports - both professionals and entry-level staff

5+ years working in a law firm or comparable professional services firm strongly preferred

Must have strong computing skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, SharePoint, and PowerPoint. &nbsp;

Preference for demonstrated ability with MS Copilot or similar AI tools&nbsp;

Ability to communicate effectively and influence stakeholders at multiple levels, including at the executive level

Skills &amp; Competencies

Strong execution focus; ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver on deadlines

Process discipline and attention to detail, consistency, and follow-through

Sound judgment, including knowing when to decide vs. escalate and how to manage risk

Comfort operating in a fast-paced, professional environment with changing priorities

Strong interpersonal and communication skills; including the ability to effectively communicate verbally and in-writing with attorneys, clients, staff, community, and vendors.

Professional client service manner, responsiveness, flexibility, and adaptability. &nbsp; &nbsp;Demonstrated “client first” mentality.

Collaborative approach and ability to build credibility with partners and peers

Excellent diplomacy, tact, and conflict resolution skills needed to frequently push back and/or to effectively bring parties to compromise.

Ability to maintain composure under pressure and demonstrate good judgment.

Must demonstrate a high level of integrity and professional discretion; with the proven ability to appropriately handle sensitive and confidential information and situations.

Use approved AI-enabled tools responsibly and effectively to improve quality, efficiency, and decision-making, consistent with organizational policies, confidentiality, and applicable laws.

Valid authorization to work &amp; travel in the U.S.

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We are committed to fostering an environment where every team member can thrive both personally and professionally. It's why we invest in and provide the following resources and guidance to help you grow your career with confidence.
<ul>
<li>Challenging and Dynamic Role</li>
<li>Career Development Planning</li>
<li>Professional Growth Opportunities</li>
<li>Performance Management and Coaching</li>
<li>Specialized Training Programs</li>
</ul>

Learning &amp; Growth

Our comprehensive benefits support the well-being of our people by prioritizing physical and mental health. From core health coverage to proactive wellness programs, we provide the tools you need to care for yourself at every stage of life.
<ul type="disc">
<li>Medical</li>
<li>Dental</li>
<li>Vision Care</li>
<li>Health Savings Accounts</li>
<li>Flexible Spending Accounts</li>
<li>Wellness Program</li>
<li>Employee and Family Assistance Program</li>
</ul>

Health &amp; Wellness

Our approach combines competitive pay with exceptional benefits and meaningful rewards that reflect the value each team member brings to our firm. We ensure everyone has the support they need to be at their best.
<ul>
<li>Competitive Base Pay</li>
<li>Annual Merit Review/Incentive Pay</li>
<li>Outstanding Benefits</li>
<li>Generous PTO Plus 10 Paid Holidays</li>
</ul>

Total Compensation

We take a proactive approach to future planning by offering benefits designed to safeguard your financial and personal well-being.
<ul type="disc">
<li>401(k) with Company Contribution</li>
<li>Paid Medical Leave</li>
<li>Long Term Disability Plan</li>
<li>Life Insurance</li>
<li>Critical Illness Insurance</li>
<li>Paid Parental Leave</li>
</ul>

Planning for the Future

Our culture is built on trust, respect, and a shared commitment to excellence. As a growing firm with an exciting vision for the future, we offer a modern, flexible working environment that supports productivity, balance, and connection.
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<li>Respected Organization with Collaborative Culture</li>
<li>Growing Firm with an Exciting Future</li>
<li>Contemporary Work Environment</li>
<li>Positive and Respectful Work Climate</li>
<li>Performance Recognition</li>
</ul>

Culture &amp; Workplace

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Compensation for this position will range from $155,000 - $165,000, depending on experience and location.

To be considered for this position, please submit an application via our <a href="https://lawcruit.micronapps.com/sup/ApplicationForm.aspx?%3Eac^?LWCZ4dN=1`&amp;QFBsMzxLV0VYQA%3d%3d=Ml5Kaw%3d%3d&amp;QDFnXTpbVzc%3d=Mj1qb29g&amp;PWI4=OkA7QQ%3d%3d" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">online portal</a>.

Recruitment Agencies: Michael Best is not accepting unsolicited agency resumes for this position. Please do not forward resumes to our careers email address or any Firm employees. Michael Best is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

Michael Best &amp; Friedrich LLP and Michael Best Strategies LLC, (collectively known as "Michael Best") are steadfastly committed to providing equal employment opportunity and maintaining a workplace for employees and applicants for employment that is free from discrimination based upon age, race, religion, color, disability, marital status, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, veteran or military status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, please contact our Recruiting team at 414.225.4999 or careers@michaelbest.com to let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

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Director Of Office Operations & Real Estate

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