Manager Legal Operations, U.S.
About the position At Philip Morris International (PMI), we've chosen to do something incredible. We're totally transforming our business and building our future on one clear purpose - to deliver a smoke-free future. With huge change, comes huge opportunity. So, if you join us, you'll enjoy the freedom to dream up and deliver better, brighter solutions and the space to move your career forward in endlessly different directions. Our success depends on people who are committed to our purpose and have an appetite for progress. Our beautiful HQ in Stamford, CT is just steps away from the Stamford Metro-North Train Station and easily accessible from NYC. Position Summary We are seeking an experienced and strategic Legal Operations Manager to lead and enhance the Legal & Compliance Department's operational capabilities. This role will be responsible for driving efficiency, governance, and implementing innovative technology solutions to support the legal function. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a strategic mindset, and deep expertise in legal operations and technology, including emerging AI applications.
Responsibilities
- Lead the development and governance of outside counsel guidelines.
- Oversee law firm performance and ensure compliance with billing and engagement standards.
- Oversee the analysis and negotiation of outside counsel billing rates.
- Partner with Finance to lead legal budgeting, forecasting, and accrual processes.
- Monitor legal spend and implement cost-saving strategies.
- Oversee planning, execution, and reporting of legal projects and initiatives.
- Ensure project documentation, timelines, and status reports are maintained.
- Facilitate cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder alignment.
- Collaborate cross functionally to evaluate and implement advanced legal technology and AI tools to improve team productivity.
- Support adoption of AI-driven solutions for contract review, e-billing, matter management, and knowledge management.
- Stay abreast of industry trends and champion innovative solutions to enhance legal operations.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Legal Studies, Finance, or a related field; advanced degree or certification preferred.
- 7+ years of experience in legal operations, finance, or project management, with at least 3 years in a leadership role (in-house legal department or law firm experience preferred).
- Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills; advanced proficiency in Excel and data visualization tools.
- Extensive experience with legal technology platforms (e.g., e-billing, matter management, CLM) and AI tools.
- Hand-on experience implementing AI tools in legal workflows.
- Outstanding communication, organizational, and stakeholder management skills; proven ability to work cross-functionally.
- Legally authorized to work in the U.S.
Benefits
- We offer a competitive base salary, annual bonus (applicable based on level of position), great medical, dental and vision coverage, 401k with a generous company match, incredible wellness benefits, commuter benefits, pet insurance, generous PTO, and much more!
- We have implemented Smart Work, a hybrid model of working that promotes flexibility in the workplace.
- Seize the freedom to define your future and ours. We'll empower you to take risks, experiment and explore.
- Be part of an inclusive, diverse culture where everyone's contribution is respected; Collaborate with some of the world's best people and feel like you belong.
- Pursue your ambitions and develop your skills with a global business - our staggering size and scale provides endless opportunities to progress.
- Take pride in delivering our promise to society: To improve the lives of millions of smokers
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