Docketing Director

Job Description:

Perkins Coie is seeking a dynamic, talented individual to take on the role of the Docketing Director who oversees the firm's docketing professionals, docketing systems, and related projects, ensuring that adequate business professionals, processes, and procedures are in place so that deadlines tracked for the firm and its clients are met. The Docketing Director works closely with firm administrative and practice group leadership and will assist in the development of docketing policies and procedures that meet applicable professional responsibility, statute, and rule requirements, as well as business needs.

This position also provides strategic leadership and direction in the implementation and development of systems, processes, and procedures that optimize efficiency and accuracy in the provision of docketing services.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

These essential functions are primary job duties that incumbents must be able to perform unassisted or with some reasonable accommodation.

• Oversee and develop a cohesive and skilled team of 25+ docketing professionals who provide all business, litigation, and intellectual property docket-related services for the firm. Strategically direct and oversee workforce planning, staffing decisions, team compensation, and promotions.
• Monitor and assess all firm docketing systems, processes, and procedures with the goal of maximizing efficiency, accuracy, and cost-savings and minimizing errors that could negatively impact clients and the firm. Propose strategies and implementation methods to enhance or refine firm docketing systems, processes, and procedures, including identifying and analyzing docketing technologies, trends, and best practices across the profession that will help meet such goals. Work closely with project management to oversee the implementation of any docketing-related projects and initiatives.
• Serve as subject matter expert and collaborator to firm administrative and practice group leadership in the development and regular review of firm service standards, policies, and procedures with respect to docketing. Oversee updates to the firm's docketing policy.
• Serve as the main point of contact and subject matter expert for lawyers and other firm business professionals on issue resolution and queries relating to policy, procedure, best practices, and use of the docketing systems, escalating unusual or sensitive issues as appropriate based on established protocols and mandatory reporting policies. Liaise regularly with practice group and administrative management to ensure docketing needs are serviced effectively.
• Assist with the development of departmental budgets, with a focus on identifying priorities, controlling costs, and using resources efficiently. Oversee all docketing-related expenses.
• Oversee the development and implementation of a regular, ongoing training protocol for all docketing professionals. Oversee creation and maintenance of all docketing-related training resources. Implement and monitor quality control procedures to ensure accuracy in docketing entries and compliance with legal and ethical requirements and firm policies and procedures.
• Maintain an in-depth working knowledge of the entire docketing team's processes, procedures, and technical environments in order to provide the expected level of support and troubleshoot emergent issues.
• Oversee relationships with third-party system providers. Work with the firm's Technology team to ensure docketing systems are functioning properly.
• Provide specialized docket reporting support to firm and practice group management as requested.
• Maintain membership and relationships within industry professional groups and associations that promote ongoing education regarding docketing deadlines, practices and procedures, and docketing systems.

SPECIFIC SKILLS REQUIRED

• Must be analytical, strategic, and practical.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively lead and develop a large team and establish effective working relationships throughout operational groups.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, and present information in a professional, concise, and timely manner.
• Demonstrated ability to compile, review, filter, and synthesize data and information.
• Extensive experience in strategic planning and policy development.
• Demonstrated ability to exhibit judgment and flexibility in problem-solving to make decisions or recommendations.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects and manage third-party vendor relationships.
• Advanced understanding of business, litigation, trademark, and patent docketing practices and procedures.
• Proficiency with calendaring and docketing software, preferably CompuLaw, Pattsy Wave, and FoundationIP.
• Must remain informed and educated on current USPTO, state court, and federal court rules and requirements.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Qualified candidates must have a Bachelor's degree or equivalent; those with an advanced degree, such as a Master of Business Administration or similar, are preferred. Candidates must have 10+ years of supervisory or management experience, with a minimum of 3 years of senior-level management experience. Those with leadership experience within a large law firm or similar professional services environment are likewise preferred. Candidates must have 5+ years of legal docketing experience within a large law firm or similar professional services environment as well as general docketing experience in multiple areas of law.

This position is eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, 401(k) plan, medical, dental, and vision insurance, accrued paid time off plan starting at 20 days annually, personal medical and parental leave, up to ten paid Holidays, and family care benefits. More information regarding benefits and programs may be found here.

At Perkins Coie, we look for self-motivated individuals, dedicated to providing value and superior service, and above all, have a high degree of integrity and enthusiasm for their work. We have created a company culture based on collaboration, devotion to serving our clients, and mutual respect. Perkins Coie is committed to advancing diversity and inclusion both within the firm and throughout our collective communities. Work with one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For and receive great health insurance, tuition reimbursement, and paid sabbaticals.

This position may be filled in the following location(s). The compensation depends on qualifications and experience.

Colorado compensation range: $130,740 to $206,700 annually

Washington State compensation range: $137,910 to $218,040 annually

Washington D.C. compensation range: $148,940 to $235,480 annually

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