Professional Development Manager

Position SummaryThe Manager, Professional Development will work closely with the partners in the Mergers & Acquisitions group to oversee work allocation, performance and utilization, and social events. In addition, the manager will collaborate with other members of the Professional Development team to implement our performance review process, the corporate rotation system, lateral integration and new parent support.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Typical responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:Staffing/Work AllocationStaff approximately 25-50 associates as needed, in consultation with staffing partners; coordinate utilization of temporary help from other groups Monitor utilization and track associates' experience in order to maximize the variety of work, increase exposure to different partners and senior associates, and develop new skillsCreate reports for partners to assist with staffing and utilization; manage master staffing chart tracking assignmentsKeep track of and staff vacation coverage for counsel, associates and rotatorsAttorney ReviewsCoordinate interim and year-end performance evaluation process for associates and counsel in the groupCollect feedback throughout the year regarding attorney performance and discuss with practice group leaders how best to deliver that feedbackTrack and facilitate the realization of Professional Development Priorities identified during the year-end review processAttorney TrainingWork with practice resource lawyers and practice group leaders to identify training needs and skill gaps, and organize training programs to address those needsAttorney RetentionPrepare data for discussion with practice group and firm leadership regarding professional development and retention of attorneysMake recommendations for improving associate recruiting and retentionOrganize regular practice group meetings and social gatheringsOrientation & Integration of New and Lateral AttorneysConduct orientation for rotators and lateral attorneys joining the group Meet regularly with associates to monitor morale, identify training needs, answer questions, and address any concernsProvide support to new parents; manage re-integration and conduct regular check-in meetingsMentoringAssign associate mentors to rotators and lateral associatesOversee partner advisor assignment to all permanent associatesAdditional ResponsibilitiesAssist with the rotation process for approximately 60 junior corporate associates. Work with staffing partners and practice group coordinators to assess projected staffing needs. Evaluate associates' practice group preferences and meet with staffing partners to finalize allocation within each group.Assist with staffing other corporate practice groups as neededAssist with secondment requests, follow-up and re‑integrationMiscellaneous ad hoc projects as requested by practice group and PD department

Qualifications/Position RequirementsExcellent communication skills, both written and oral. Able to propose creative solutions to challenging problems. Exceptional organizational skills. Determination and ability to project confidence and optimism in high-stress environment essential. Familiarity with Excel and comfortable creating and presenting PowerPoint presentations expected. Must have excellent leadership skills and be able to inspire confidence among associates and firm leaders. Availability during standard office hours is essential and the ability to respond to email promptly outside of standard office hours and on weekends is expected. Ability to maintain confidentiality of personnel and other sensitive matters is critical.

Education and/or ExperienceBachelor's degree required, JD preferred Minimum of 3-5 years' post-graduate experience in a law firm or professional services organization expected. Familiarity with mergers & acquisitions and/or corporate transactional practice a plus. Experience with collaborating with partners in a large law firm setting expected.

CompensationThe expected base salary for this position ranges from $200,000 - $225,000. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, licensure or certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Davis Polk offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.