Strategic Director of Administrative Operations

Smith Anderson Group; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Smith Anderson is seeking a Director of Administrative Operations to lead the firm’s day-to-day administrative functions, including legal support services, facilities, office services, and HR. This role reports to the COO and drives efficient processes, service delivery, and compliance across the organization.

The ideal candidate will be a proven people leader with strong change management, policy development, budgeting, and vendor management skills, ensuring confidential and high-quality

Qualifications

• 7–10 years of administrative, operations, HR or professional services leadership.
• Experience supervising administrative professionals and office services.
• Familiarity with law firm operations and confidentiality requirements.
• Ability to lead people, manage performance, and drive process improvements.
• Experience developing policies, procedures, staffing models, and service standards.

Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day leadership, coaching, development, and performance management for admin teams.
• Align legal support resources with attorney needs, client service levels, and deadlines.
• Evaluate staffing, coverage models, and service levels; implement improvements.
• Support HR operations: employee relations, recruiting, onboarding, performance, policy admin.
• Manage facilities, office services, vendors, and space needs, ensuring smooth operations.
• Assist with budgeting, expenses, vendor relations, contracts, and resource planning.
• Coordinate with HR, office services, and firm leadership to foster clear communication.
• Maintain awareness of legal industry operations and confidentiality obligations.

Skills

Leadership

Operations management

Human resources

Strategic planning

Budgeting

Policy development

Confidentiality

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration / HR / related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

HRIS

Document management systems

Timekeeping systems

Job description

Smith Anderson is seeking a Director of Administrative Operations to lead the firm’s day-to-day administrative functions, including legal support services, facilities, office services, and HR. This role reports to the COO and drives efficient processes, service delivery, and compliance across the organization.

The ideal candidate will be a proven people leader with strong change management, policy development, budgeting, and vendor management skills, ensuring confidential and high-quality