Head of Legal Operations

The Opportunity:

The Head of Legal Operations will be responsible for designing, implementing, and managing the operational infrastructure of the Legal Department to enable efficient, scalable, and strategic delivery of legal services across the organization. This role will partner closely with legal leadership, business stakeholders, and external counsel to optimize processes, manage budgets, implement technology solutions, and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

In a fast-paced, innovation-driven biotech environment, the Head of Legal Operations will play a critical role in aligning legal resources with the company’s scientific, clinical, and commercial objectives, while fostering a culture of operational excellence and continuous improvement.

The Head of Legal Operations will support the Company’s growing global Legal department by assisting with the design, organization and execution of various legal department technology platforms and tools relating to contract management, e-learning, e-billing, IP docketing, and general leveraging of AI for greater legal operations efficiency.  This role partners closely with Legal, Compliance, IT, Finance, Procurement and other functions.

The ideal candidate has strong experience with Legal operations in a biotech or pharmaceutical setting, excellent judgment, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Key responsibilities in this role include:

Operational Strategy & Management

• Develop and execute the Legal Department’s operational strategy in alignment with corporate goals.

• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure efficiency, quality, and value of legal services.

• Drive process improvements to streamline workflows and enhance collaboration across the company.

Financial Management

• Oversee the Legal Department budget, including forecasting, tracking, and reporting.

• Manage outside counsel relationships, negotiate fee arrangements, and monitor performance.

• Implement cost-control measures while maintaining high-quality legal support.

Technology & Systems

• Identify, implement, and manage legal technology solutions (e.g., contract lifecycle management, e-billing, matter management), especially those leveraging AI tools.

• Oversee the Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM) system for the Legal team, ensuring optimal configuration, adoption, and integration with enterprise systems.

• Ensure systems are compliant with data privacy/security requirements and support efficient contract processes from initiation to renewal/termination.

Vendor & Resource Management

• Manage relationships with external legal service providers, consultants, and vendors.

• Develop and maintain preferred provider lists and performance evaluation processes.

Compliance & Risk Management Support

• Partner with Compliance, Regulatory, and Quality teams to ensure adherence to biotech industry regulations (FDA, EMA, HIPAA, etc.).

• Support risk assessment initiatives and implement mitigation strategies.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead and mentor legal operations staff, fostering professional growth and high performance.

• Promote a collaborative, inclusive, and solutions-oriented culture within the Legal Department.

Required Skills, Experience and Education:

• Bachelor’s degree required; JD or MBA preferred.

• Bachelor’s degree with 15+ years of experience or Master’s degree with 13+ years experience or  Doctoral/JD with 10+ years experience in legal operations, corporate legal management, or related field, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.

• Experience in the biotech, pharmaceutical, or life sciences industry.

• Proven track record of implementing legal technology and process improvements, including CLM systems.

• Strong financial acumen and experience managing departmental budgets.

• Excellent project management, organizational, and analytical skills.

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, highly regulated environment.

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.

  #LI-Hybrid  #LI-YG1