Research Operations Manager
Plona Partners - Washington, DC
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Manager, Research Operations (Confidential - AmLaw 100)Compensation & Location$130,000 - $185,000 base salaryOvertime + discretionary bonusOpen to candidates based in: Washington, DC | San Francisco | Los Angeles | San Diego | Las VegasHybrid structure (varies by office)A globally recognized AmLaw 100 law firm is seeking a Manager, Research Operations to lead and modernize its technical services and research infrastructure across a high-performing legal environment. This is a high-impact leadership role"”not maintenance. You'll step into a function with strong institutional knowledge and be tasked with optimizing workflows, elevating systems, and aligning stakeholders across the firm.The environment demands structure, clarity, and execution"”this is for someone who knows how to build trust with experienced teams while still pushing performance forward.What You'll OwnLead all Technical Services functions (cataloging, acquisitions, renewals, invoice processing) across the research/library functionManage, mentor, and develop a tenured team, driving accountability and performance without disrupting continuityEvaluate current workflows and implement process improvements that actually stickPartner cross-functionally with leadership, attorneys, and vendors to ensure alignment and service deliverySupport contract lifecycle management and contribute to annual budgeting strategyOversee both physical and digital collections, including usage tracking and optimizationEnsure seamless access to electronic resources and research tools across the firmWhat They're Looking For~7+ years of experience within a law firm or fast-paced professional services environmentStrong background in technical services, library systems, and resource managementProven ability to implement change without breaking operationsLeadership style built on consistency, clarity, and accountabilityAbility to influence and build credibility across a long-tenured, high-level teamStrong analytical mindset with the ability to translate data into actionMLS (ALA-accredited) preferredExperience with EOS or similar library systems is a plusThe OpportunityJoin a firm consistently ranked among the top law firms globally (AmLaw / Vault recognized)Operate in a role with real visibility and influence across practice groupsStep into a function where your impact will be felt immediatelyWork alongside leadership that values structure, execution, and forward-thinking operations
Created: 2026-05-09