Chief Operating Officer – Law Firm COO

Kreischer Miller; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 150,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a strategic Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead their operational infrastructure. This key role involves managing diverse business functions, driving growth and innovation, and enhancing the client and employee experience. The ideal candidate will possess a strong operational background, preferably in a law firm, with a proven ability to foster a collaborative culture and ensure financial sustainability. Join a dynamic team where your leadership will make a significant impact on the firm's success.

Qualifications

• 10-15 years of leadership experience in a professional services environment.
• Proven track record in financial management and operational leadership.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations including Finance, HR, and IT.
• Partner with CEO on strategic initiatives and execution plans.

Skills

Operational Leadership

Financial Management

Strategic Planning

Talent Development

Technology Adoption

Risk Management

Interpersonal Communication

Education

Bachelor's Degree

MBA

CPA

JD

Job description

About Kreischer Miller:

Kreischer Miller’s Retained Executive Search (RES) Group takes a highly personalized and collaborative approach to executive recruiting. We work directly with owners of privately-held and family-owned companies to help build their leadership teams. Our goal is to find the best fit for your organization – top-tier executives who will make an immediate and long-term positive impact on your company. Our RES Group has a proven track record of locating talented senior-level executives. We are proud to be a perennial name on Philadelphia Business Journal’s list of Top 10 Retained Search Firms.

About The Function:

Chief Operating Officer (COO) – Law Firm
Philadelphia, PA (On-Site 5 days)

Our Client is a nationally recognized law firm delivering litigation, regulatory, compliance, and transactional legal services. With more than 150 attorneys across multiple offices, they advise businesses in highly regulated industries and complex litigation matters. Our culture is collaborative, entrepreneurial, and client-focused.

Position Summary:
We are seeking a strategic, business-minded Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead and optimize the firm’s operational infrastructure. Reporting directly to the CEO and working closely with the Board of Directors, the COO will oversee all business functions, ensuring operational excellence, financial strength, and a first-class employee and client experience.

The COO will be a key strategic advisor and partner to firm leadership, helping to drive growth, innovation, and efficiency while preserving the firm’s values and culture.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operational Leadership:
  Manage day-to-day business operations including Finance, Accounting, Human Resources, Information Technology, Facilities, and Office Services.
• Strategic Planning & Execution:
  Partner with the CEO and Board on firm-wide strategic initiatives. Translate strategy into operational goals, performance metrics, and execution plans.
• Financial Management:
  Oversee budgeting, financial reporting, forecasting, and performance analysis. Work closely with the firm’s financial leadership to ensure fiscal health and long-term sustainability.
• Talent and Culture:
  Lead initiatives to attract, retain, and develop top talent. Foster a positive, high-performing culture aligned with the firm’s mission and values.
• Technology & Innovation:
  Champion technology adoption and process improvement to enhance efficiency, client service, and security.
• Risk Management & Compliance:
  In coordination with the firm’s financial leadership and the Chief Compliance Officer, ensure the firm maintains appropriate insurance coverage, vendor relationships, regulatory compliance, and business continuity plans.
• Facilities and Office Management:
  Oversee physical office operations and ensure facilities support a productive, collaborative work environment.

Qualifications:

• Proven track record of success as a senior operational leader in a professional services environment (law firm experience strongly preferred).
• Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive leadership experience.
• Strong business and financial acumen; comfortable managing budgets and interpreting complex financial data.
• Experience leading teams across multiple business functions.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; ability to build trust with attorneys, staff, and leadership.
• Tech-savvy, with a focus on innovation and operational efficiency.
• Collaborative leadership style with a results-driven mindset.
• Bachelor’s degree required; MBA, CPA, or JD preferred.

Key Attributes:

• High emotional intelligence and sound judgment.
• Ability to balance strategic vision with hands-on operational leadership.
• Commitment to excellence, integrity, and client service.
• Must be legally eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship
• Local Candidates highly preferred

C1OO