Director of Attorney Professional Development

About the position

Manatt, Phelps & Phillips LLP is seeking a highly motivated and strategic Director of Attorney Professional Development to manage firmwide attorney professional development initiatives, focusing on learning, training, and development. This position will report to the Senior Director of Professional Development and is aimed at fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development within the firm.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement all attorney professional development initiatives, including training programs, mentorship opportunities, orientation and onboarding initiatives, individualized learning plans, and leadership development pathways.
• Oversee the management of all Firm CLE compliance, tracking and reporting firmwide as well as ensuring continuous CLE opportunities.
• Design and deliver training programs on substantive legal topics, professional skills, technology, and client service.
• Partner with firm management and practice group leaders to identify training needs and assess the success of related programs.
• Source and maintain relationships with external consultants, coaches, and speakers.
• Maintain networks and knowledge of trends in the attorney development field.
• Develop metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of attorney training programs.
• Research and integrate innovative training opportunities and industry best practices.
• Provide leadership, mentoring, and operational oversight for the attorney professional development team.
• Develop the attorney professional development budget, including forecasting and resource allocation.
• Collaborate with various professional development teams to ensure alignment with core competencies and professional growth.
• Partner with other firm departments to align Attorney Professional Development initiatives with broader talent management strategies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a related field is required, JD highly preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in professional development required or 7+ years with prior experience as a practicing attorney.
• Demonstrated experience in designing, facilitating, and delivering training programs to attorney audiences.
• Certification in instructional design, professional development programs, coaching, and assessment certifications preferred.
• Expertise in leveraging learning technologies, including Learning Management Systems (LMS) and eLearning platforms.
• Deep understanding of industry best practices in attorney professional development.
• Proven success in aligning professional development initiatives with firmwide strategic objectives.
• Superior communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to function in a fast-paced, service-oriented environment.
• Strong planning, project management, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Deep personal commitment to integrity and ethics.
• Ability to work discreetly with confidential information.
• Excellent computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to travel as needed.

Nice-to-haves

• Law firm experience strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with HRIS systems and advanced reporting tools.

Benefits

• Base annual pay range between $175,000-$250,000.
• Full range of medical, financial, and other benefits dependent on the position.