Office Administrative Director

Skadden, Arps...LLP; Los Angeles (CA); Hybrid; USD 215,000 - 250,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

401(k) savings plan

Paid time off & parental leave

Job summary

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP seeks an Office Administrative Director for the Los Angeles Office. The role is hybrid and focuses on managing strategic and day-to-day operations, coordinating with regional teams, and driving efficiency across business services.

The position requires a bachelor’s degree and at least eight years in office administration or HR management in a legal environment; strong leadership and communication skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Deep knowledge of law-firm operations and best practices.
• Proven ability to lead office administration and partner with senior leaders.
• Experience managing change and driving efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Manage strategic and day-to-day operations of the office, implementing firm-wide strategies and processes.
• Liaise with regional and global support departments on operational matters and firm-wide initiatives.
• Collaborate with office leaders, attorneys, and business services professionals to identify and execute opportunities for innovation and efficiency.
• Monitor, analyze, and report on the progress and impact of strategic initiatives to senior leadership and stakeholders.

Skills

Legal operations

Leadership

Change management

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Travel flexibility

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

Outlook

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

We invite you to review our business services professionals openings to learn about the opportunities available across the firm. Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP has forged a reputation as one of the most prestigious law firms in the world. Relying on innovation, intellect, teamwork, and tenacity, our lawyers deliver the highest quality advice and novel solutions to our clients’ legal issues. We are known for handling the most complex transactions, litigation/controversy issues, and regulatory matters, and for the strong partnerships we build with clients and each other. Our attorneys, who reflect a broad range of experiences and perspectives, work together seamlessly across 50-plus practices and 21 offices worldwide.

Opportunity

Office Administrative Director – Los Angeles Office (Hybrid)

Responsibilities

• Manage strategic and day‑to‑day operations of the office, implementing firm‑wide strategies and processes.
• Liaise with regional and global support departments on operational matters and firm‑wide initiatives.
• Partner with office leaders, attorneys, and business services professionals to identify and execute opportunities for innovation and efficiency.
• Collaborate with finance, technology, and talent management teams to implement finance and technology solutions and develop talent for strategic initiatives.
• Monitor, analyze, and report on the progress and impact of strategic initiatives to senior leadership and stakeholders.
• Oversee non‑legal administration, including budget and expense management, timekeeping, billing, accounts receivable and payable.
• Support annual budget preparation in coordination with the Financial Planning and Analysis Department.
• Coordinate vendor relationships, office infrastructure, and real‑estate projects, working with the Chief Real Estate Officer on space utilization and lease administration.
• Provide oversight of support functions (Legal Assistant Services, Records Management, Law Clerks, Research & Knowledge Services, Secretarial and Operations Group Services).
• Organize office events, well‑being programs, and community outreach, and administer the Emergency Response Program.
• Promote firm standards and priorities locally in collaboration with Firm Chief Officers.
• Support the local people team with employment policies, recruiting, performance management, payroll, compensation, and professional development.
• Ensure compliance with office and firm policies, local labor laws, and regulatory requirements.
• Provide assistance to expatriates with immigration and relocation matters.

Qualifications

• Deep knowledge of legal industry best practices, trends, and law‑firm management.
• Proven ability to collaborate with Partners and Office Leaders to develop strategy, achieve business goals, and foster a positive and inclusive office culture.
• Experience leading in a matrix environment, managing change, and implementing projects and processes.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and planning skills with the ability to prioritize, delegate, and troubleshoot effectively.
• Professional demeanor with high emotional intelligence and strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated leadership, collaboration, and influence, fostering trust and respect across all levels.
• Sound judgment, discretion, and the ability to handle sensitive matters with impartiality and confidentiality.
• Resilience under pressure, capable of navigating business challenges and making difficult decisions.
• Proficiency in relevant software (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint) and adaptability to new technologies.
• Flexible and reliable, with the ability to travel and adjust hours to meet business needs.
• Committed to upholding firm policies, fostering cooperative relationships, and maintaining credibility.
• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Minimum of eight (8) years relevant office administration or human‑resources management experience, preferably in a legal environment.

Culture & Life

Skadden’s culture is built on teamwork, collaboration, and inclusion. We value diversity of talent and strive to create an environment where everyone can thrive and develop a challenging career while supporting the well‑being of attorneys and business services professionals.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and year‑end discretionary bonuses.
• Comprehensive healthcare (medical, dental, vision), savings plan/401(k), and voluntary benefits.
• Generous paid time off, parental leave, and paid leave options.
• In‑classroom, remote, and on‑demand learning and professional development opportunities.
• Well‑being classes and programs, and opportunities to give back in local communities.

Salary

Base salary range: $215,000 – $250,000. Actual salary will be determined based on skills, experience, and other job‑related factors, consistent with applicable law. This position may be eligible for a discretionary year‑end bonus.

EEO Statement

Skadden is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It does not discriminate against applicants or employees on any protected basis, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, and other protected categories. Applicants who require accommodation during the application process should contact Alex Taylor at (212)735‑2176.