Job Description

The Chief of Operations is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the firm, ensuring the business runs smoothly so attorneys can focus on client service. This role oversees staff management, central services, operational systems, and firm-wide administration, serving as a key partner to firm leadership and the board.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage approximately 30 non-attorney staff , including assistants, paralegals, and central services personnel
• Oversee firm operations across departments, identifying gaps and building or refining roles as needed
• Manage contracts, vendors, and key banking relationships
• Maintain oversight and understanding of trust accounts and financial processes (in partnership with the firm accountant)
• Lead the Central Services Department , including IT, front desk, records/files, accounting, and bookkeeping
• Schedule and coordinate board meetings and communicate effectively with firm leadership
• Support firm culture and engagement, including planning occasional client and firm events
• Make operational decisions independently, including determining priorities and appropriately saying “no” when needed
• Supervise hiring, performance management, and terminations with professionalism and discretion
• Partner with existing roles (e.g., marketing, accounting) to ensure clear ownership and efficiency

Qualifications

• Proven experience running, or serving as second-in-command to, a complex organization
• Strong people leadership skills with the ability to manage diverse personalities and experience levels
• Comfortable overseeing operations in a professional services environment (legal background not required)
• Financial and operational acumen; experience with trust or regulated accounts is a plus (training provided)
• Technology-forward mindset with the ability to learn industry-specific tools quickly
• Excellent judgment, communication skills, and executive presence
• Degree not required ; experience and leadership capability are paramount

Additional Details

• Manages operations for a firm of approximately 30 attorneys and 30 staff
• Optional travel for conferences
• Occasional evening availability for firm or client events
• This role is onsite 5 days a week in Cedar Rapids, Iowa
• This is a direct-placement role

Compensation:

$125,000 to $150,000+ per year annual salary

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