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
Professional Development, Manager – Litigation
Location
New York
Department
Professional Development
Reports to
Chief Professional Development Officer
Exempt/Non-Exempt
Exempt
Work Schedule
Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (additional hours required as needed).
Position Summary
The Manager, Professional Development - Litigation will manage all aspects of professional development for mid-level and senior associates in the Litigation practice group.
Essentials Duties and Responsibilities
Typical responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Staff 1st – 3rd year associates in the litigation department and assist with staffing mid-level and senior associates as needed. Monitor associates' availability and professional development through data and regular meetings with junior associates.
- Monitor reports and data to assist with staffing and utilization for all litigation partners; interface with partners to rationalize staffing on and among case teams; oversee time entry and Bar admission compliance for junior associates
- Assist senior associates and partners with performance management and providing feedback to junior associates throughout the year.
- Co-ordinate the formal annual performance evaluation process for junior litigation associates; participate in review meetings relating to junior associates; help identify performance issues and training needs; report on trends in review process. Collaborate with Professional Development Managers for mid-level and senior associates to manage department review schedules and finalize review messages for delivery.
- Assist with recruiting efforts as needed; make recommendations for improving associate recruiting and retention; coordinate secondment processes as necessary; review exit interview data and report on trends to senior management.
- Conduct orientation for first year and 1st – 3rd year lateral litigation associates.
- Manage the partner and peer mentorship programs: make mentor matches, develop social and other programs to support the programs, track participation, remain engaged with mentors for staffing and professional development support, etc.
- Meet regularly with all 1st – 3rd year associates to maintain morale, answer questions and discuss issues around any aspect of their professional experience at the firm.
- Develop and track associates’ experience and progression, in order to maximize the variety of work, exposure to different partners and senior associates, and development of new skills.
- Assist practice groups with planning regular social gatherings for litigation associates.
- Identify training needs for junior associates; design and implement training initiatives for junior associates in conjunction with firm and department-wide training initiatives.
- Assist as needed with broader change management around the firm (provide support and implementation strategies for new initiatives around reviews, mentorship, DEI policies, staffing practices, hybrid working etc.)
Qualifications / Position Requirements
- Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
- Able to propose creative solutions to challenging problems.
- Determination and ability to project confidence essential.
- Pro-active and skilled at establishing “trusted advisor” type relationships with partners, associates and colleagues.
- Familiarity with Excel and comfortable creating and presenting PowerPoint and other presentations upon request expected.
- Must have excellent leadership skills and be able to inspire confidence among associates and firm leaders.
- Availability during normal office hours is essential and responsiveness to email after hours and on weekends is expected.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality of personnel and other sensitive matters is critical.
Education and/or Experience
- JD preferred.
- Experience with collaborating with partners in a large law firm setting expected.
Compensation
The expected base salary for this position ranges from $200,000 - $235,000. 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.
Apply by email