Do you know what it takes to run a law office? Are you both business-minded and tech-savvy, interested in sharing your knowledge in a non-traditional setting? The State Bar of Wisconsin has an opening just for you - we are seeking a motivated individual to work with lawyers and law firms, advising them in all aspects of law practice management, including new technologies and AI, leadership and management, business development, marketing, strategic planning, trust accounts, and more - bridging the gap between practicing law and running a successful law office. This position is ideal for someone seeking a long-term career transition out of law practice.
Who We Are
The State Bar of Wisconsin is a professional association, created by the Wisconsin Supreme Court, for all attorneys who hold a Wisconsin law license. With more than 25,000 members, the State Bar exists to serve its members and the public by promoting the law and access to justice. We aid the courts in improving the administration of justice, provide continuing legal education and other services for our members, support the education of law students, and educate the public about the legal system. The State Bar of Wisconsin also provides public services – such as attorney referrals and public education – and supports programs that provide reduced-fee legal assistance for low-income state residents.
What You Will Love
· The people, the culture and a hybrid work environment! We care about our people, our work, and our members. We value work/life balance and offer excellent benefits and flexibility to support our employees and their families. This position is eligible to work from home 3 days per week while working in the office on Tuesdays and Wednesdays with occasional travel around the state.
· Working with a mission-driven organization that acts with integrity, promotes justice, and addresses systemic racism and implicit bias in the legal system.
· Working in a fast-paced environment and managing multiple priorities and deadlines. You enjoy networking, consulting, doing presentations, writing articles, and being the subject matter expert.
· If you naturally spot inefficiencies and bottlenecks in workflows and processes, love improving systems and procedures, enjoy generating new ideas and implementing them, and have an eye for strategic thinking and continuous improvement, then this position is for you!
What You Will Do
· Provide confidential, timely, and informative advice and assistance to members and leadership by replying to requests regarding law practice questions. Topic areas include, but are not limited to, business planning, marketing, personnel, law practice management, trust accounts and technology.
· Maintain existing member programs and services including Succession Planning Registry, the Law Firm Self-Assessment, and Law Practice Discussion Groups.
· Serve as liaison to the LOMAP advisory committee. Work with committee chair, provide updates on program activities and goals. Guide committee in setting strategic benchmarks.
· Establish and maintain a productive working relationship with the Office of Lawyer Regulation and help members comply with the terms of any referrals or diversion agreements in place with the Office of Lawyer Regulation.
· Track member engagement. Anticipate, plan for, and respond to member needs through program expansion, growth, and revision of priorities.
· Create and manage program web content to meet member needs and maximize member use of Wisconsin specific online resources.
· Create and present practice management programming through PINNACLE, for State Bar Sections and Divisions, local and specialty bars, and other audiences as appropriate.
· Develop and cultivate a network of professionals in all areas of practice management and law office technology, both in Wisconsin and nationwide, to act as mentors, colleagues, associates, and member resources.
· Identify and add new affinity partners by assisting in the Insurance & Member Benefits Committee member-review process, managing the contract negotiation phase, and overseeing launch.
· Build relationships with affinity partners resulting in enhanced engagement and revenue generation.
· Represent the State Bar and the LOMAP Program at national, local, and other venues as appropriate through presentations, written articles, and general participation.
· Serve as a resource to the Solo Small Firm Conference planning board, the Solo Small Firm Section Board and Wisconsin Association of Legal Administrators (WALA) through regular meeting attendance.
· Write articles for State Bar publications and assist in the development of materials pertaining to law practice management issues.
What We Are Looking For
· Four-year degree in business management or related field. Advanced degree –MBA or JD preferred.
· A minimum of three to five years’ experience in law firm management or law office management consulting. Prefer experience with strategic planning and budgeting.
· Thorough knowledge of all aspects of law practice management including advanced business practices, marketing, office management, trust accounting, personnel management, risk management, and the use of evolving technologies in the practice of law
· Ability to establish and maintain confidential relationships, maintain the highest standard of empathy and professionalism.
· Familiarity with current hardware and software solutions for efficient law office management. Proficient with MS Office products and tools, as well as cloud computing and AI technologies.
· Strong verbal, written communication and listening skills. Ability to write clear and informational content for the State Bar’s member communications including blogs, newsletters, magazine, and website.
· Engaging and impactful presentation/public speaking skills; participate in the organization’s programming, annual educational conferences and other events as requested.
· Positive work ethic and attitude. Innovative and flexible with respect to changing and challenging business environments.
· Ability to travel statewide (20%)
· Team player eager to collaborate with a multi-team organization. Cooperative approach to working with colleagues, stakeholders, and partnering organizations.
· Supports the mission, vision, and values of the State Bar by modeling integrity, teamwork, quality, ownership and displays a commitment to equity, inclusion and diversity.
Compensation and Benefits
The State Bar of Wisconsin offers competitive compensation with annual merit increases and excellent benefits including:
• 3 weeks of paid vacation per year
• 2 weeks of paid sick time per year
• Excellent and low-cost health and dental insurance
• Fully paid life and long-term disability insurance
• 10 paid holidays plus 2 personal days
• Volunteer time off
• Hybrid work schedules and flexibility
• 8% 401(k) contribution!!
• The State Bar is also a “qualified employer” for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
How To Apply
To apply, visit www.wisbar.org/careers to upload your resume and cover letter, including salary expectations. This position will be posted until it is filled but priority will be given to applicants who submit early, so don’t wait. Apply today!
The State Bar of Wisconsin is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion and seeks to create a supportive, welcoming environment for all. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds, because it's the right thing to do and it makes us stronger.
Candidates who share these values and reflect the rich diversity of our community are encouraged to apply.
