Seeking a Practice Director to oversee operations in Lagos, with a focus on driving strategic growth and operational excellence. This role requires extensive experience in managing professional services, deep industry knowledge, and a proven track record of building high-performing teams. Responsibilities include developing business strategies, fostering client relationships, and ensuring service delivery aligns with organizational goals. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, financial acumen, and the ability to navigate complex business environments while delivering measurable results.
We are in search of a seasoned Practice Director to oversee the daily functions of a leading law firm and act as the primary operational deputy to the Founding Partner.
Oversee and execute core duties encompassing strategic planning, operational management, and team leadership to drive organizational success. Develop and implement policies, procedures, and best practices to optimize workflow efficiency and ensure compliance with industry standards. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align goals, resolve challenges, and foster innovation. Monitor performance metrics, analyze data trends, and provide actionable insights to senior leadership for informed decision-making. Serve as a primary point of contact for stakeholders, addressing inquiries, resolving conflicts, and maintaining strong professional relationships. Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements, safety protocols, and ethical guidelines while promoting a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Responsibilities include managing the firm’s operations, administrative functions, IT infrastructure, facilities, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
Oversee financial operations by handling budgeting, billing, collections, financial reporting, and profitability tracking.
Lead the full recruitment lifecycle, oversee performance management initiatives, foster employee engagement strategies, and drive staff development programs to enhance organizational effectiveness.
Deliver outstanding client service and adeptly address escalated client concerns to ensure optimal satisfaction and resolution.
Contribute to the expansion of business development efforts, enhance the firm’s brand presence, coordinate events, and drive key strategic growth initiatives.
Collaborate effectively with regulatory bodies, governmental organizations, institutional clients, and essential stakeholders to ensure alignment and compliance with established standards and requirements.
Seeking a candidate with a minimum of five years of experience in a leadership role, demonstrating a proven track record in team management and strategic planning. The ideal applicant must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, or a related field, along with proficiency in data analysis tools such as Excel and SQL. Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate across departments are essential, as is a deep understanding of budgeting and financial forecasting. Experience in process optimization and a commitment to continuous improvement are highly valued.
With a minimum of 10 years of experience in law firm administration, professional services, or high-level operational leadership, candidates should bring a proven track record in senior management roles.
Accomplished professionals with a strong track record in financial oversight and profitability management are encouraged to apply, having successfully led financial operations with autonomy and accountability.
Seasoned in directing teams comprising 15 or more staff members.
Holders of a degree in Law, Business Administration, Finance, or any closely related discipline are encouraged to apply.
A comprehensive understanding of legal practice management, billing systems, and document management platforms is essential.
Preferred
A Juries Doctor (J.D.) or equivalent advanced law degree, such as a Master of Laws (LL.M.), is required for this role.
Seasoned professionals with a proven track record at distinguished Nigerian or global law firms are encouraged to apply.
Demonstrates a comprehensive grasp of governance principles, regulatory compliance frameworks, and the operational dynamics of board-level decision-making.
Proven expertise in key professional competencies, including analytical problem-solving, effective communication, and strategic planning, is essential for this role. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in managing complex projects, fostering team collaboration, and upholding high standards of professional conduct. Strong organizational skills, adaptability to dynamic environments, and a commitment to continuous learning are critical requirements. The ability to leverage technical and interpersonal strengths to achieve organizational goals is highly valued, along with a dedication to maintaining ethical practices and delivering measurable results.
Seasoned professionals with strong leadership acumen and a proven track record in people management are sought to guide and develop teams toward achieving organizational objectives. Candidates must demonstrate exceptional interpersonal skills, the ability to inspire and motivate others, and a commitment to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment. Responsibilities include setting clear performance expectations, providing constructive feedback, mentoring team members, and resolving conflicts to ensure optimal productivity and employee engagement. Proficiency in performance management, talent development, and team dynamics is essential, along with the capacity to align individual goals with broader business strategies. Ideal candidates will exhibit emotional intelligence, adaptability, and a results-driven mindset to cultivate high-performing teams.
Demonstrates a strong grasp of financial principles, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial statement analysis. Applies this knowledge to evaluate business performance, identify trends, and support data-driven decision-making. Ensures compliance with financial regulations and internal policies while optimizing resource allocation. Collaborates with cross-functional teams to align financial strategies with organizational objectives.
Driving operational excellence requires a commitment to continuous improvement, process optimization, and performance enhancement across all organizational functions. This role demands a proactive approach to identifying inefficiencies, implementing data-driven solutions, and fostering a culture of accountability and innovation. Candidates must possess strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a track record of delivering measurable results in dynamic environments. Key responsibilities include streamlining workflows, monitoring KPIs, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to align operational strategies with business objectives. Proficiency in utilizing performance management tools and methodologies, such as Lean or Six Sigma, is essential, along with excellent communication and leadership capabilities to drive sustainable growth.
Effective stakeholder engagement involves cultivating and maintaining strong relationships with key individuals, groups, or organizations that have a vested interest in the outcomes of your projects or initiatives. This requires a deep understanding of their needs, expectations, and potential influence, as well as the ability to balance competing priorities and communicate clearly. Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills are essential to align diverse interests, while active listening and empathy help build trust and collaboration. Regular updates and transparent reporting ensure stakeholders remain informed and engaged throughout the process.
We are seeking a dedicated professional to uphold and enhance our commitment to client service excellence. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional interpersonal skills, a proactive mindset, and the ability to resolve complex client inquiries efficiently. Responsibilities include managing client relationships, addressing escalated concerns, and ensuring a seamless, high-quality experience across all touchpoints. Proficiency in CRM systems, strong problem-solving abilities, and a track record of delivering outstanding customer support are essential. This role demands adaptability in fast-paced environments, meticulous attention to detail, and a passion for exceeding client expectations.
Maintains the utmost integrity and confidentiality in all professional engagements.
This position seeks a results-driven operations leader capable of autonomously elevating firm performance while upholding uncompromising standards of professionalism and service excellence.
Talented and eligible applicants are encouraged to submit their CVs to talent@smartpartnersng.com, ensuring the position title is included in the email subject line.
Qualifications
MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
10 - 12 years
